'Follow Quaid for good governance'

Jinnah's birthday celebrated with renewed vows of adopting his principles

KARACHI:

A grand ceremonial guard change was held at Mazar-e-Quaid on Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's 149th birth anniversary on Thursday. A contingent from the Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul, assumed duties, performing a parade and salute at the mausoleum. Commandant PMA Major General Iftikhar Hussain Chaudhry served as the chief guest, laying floral tributes and offering Fatiha at the resting place of the founder of Pakistan. Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori, along with other prominent dignitaries, paid homage to Quaid-e-Azam.

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah stated that the principles and vision of Quaid-e-Azam - unity, faith, and discipline - remain as relevant and actionable today as they were at the country's inception. He said that the Quaid's life is a lesson in public service, justice, constitutionalism, and the rule of law, and that Pakistan's path to development lies in following his ideals. Murad Ali Shah described visiting Mazar-e-Quaid as a reaffirmation of commitment to honest and sincere public service, pledging that the Sindh government will continue advancing public welfare in line with Quaid-e-Azam's vision.

The Chief Minister said that Quaid-e-Azam's principles provide the best guidance for governance, emphasising law, equality, and social service. He extended birthday greetings on behalf of his cabinet to the nation. Highlighting national achievements, he cited local electricity generation from Thar coal, water supply initiatives, and the establishment of a technology park at NED University.

Paying tribute to Pakistan's historical leaders, Murad Ali Shah honoured the contributions of Shaheed Liaquat Ali Khan, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto - who made Pakistan a nuclear power - and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, who strengthened national defence through missile technology. He also lauded the leadership of President Arif Alvi, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, and Chief of Defence Staff General Asim Munir for strategic decisions regarding Afghanistan and counter-terrorism policies. He affirmed support for the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination and highlighted the need for unity in the Muslim world, expressing sorrow over the plight of Palestinians affected by Israeli aggression.

Speaking to the media, Governor Tessori emphasised that the Quaid's birthday is a reminder of national unity, sacrifice, and renewed resolve. He highlighted that Pakistan's armed forces have made unparalleled sacrifices for the country's defence, earning global recognition, and praised Pakistan's strategic diplomatic successes, including enhanced ties with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and China. Tessori also pointed to Pakistan's emerging economic strategies, noting that initiatives like PIA's privatisation could be a game-changer for national progress.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from all three armed forces, DG Rangers Sindh, Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab, Sindh Assembly Opposition Leader Ali Khurshidi, Salim Mowndviwala, and other high-profile personalities. The observances reflected national respect, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to the ideals of Pakistan's founder, emphasising unity, development, and a prosperous future guided by the vision of Quaid-e-Azam.

While, Sindh Assembly Opposition Leader Ali Khurshidi described December 25 as a day of reflection and renewed pledge, noting Quaid-e-Azam's historic struggle to secure an independent identity for Muslims of the subcontinent. He emphasised that Pakistan was envisioned not just as a geographic entity but as a cradle of justice and fairness, where all citizens - regardless of religion, colour, language, or background - should enjoy equal opportunities. Khurshidi urged the nation to reflect on progress toward this vision and stressed that following the discipline and unity championed by the Quaid is essential to overcoming present political and economic challenges.