PM vows stronger democratic institutions

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, constitutional supremacy, parliamentary governance, transparency, accountability, the rule of law, and meaningful public participation in decision-making.

In a message on the observance of the International Day of Parliamentarism on June 30, the premier noted that the Constitution guarantees a democratic system of government founded upon the principles of representative governance.

"In accordance with the spirit of the Constitution, sovereignty belongs to the people, and their elected representatives exercise this authority as a sacred trust for the service, welfare, and prosperity of the nation," the PM Office Media Wing, in a quote, quoted the prime minister as saying.

On the International Day of Parliamentarism, the prime minister called upon to renew their unwavering commitment to the supremacy of the constitution, parliamentary democracy, federalism, inclusivity, the rule of law, transparency, accountability, and public welfare.

He further said that parliament served as the principal constitutional forum through which the aspirations and concerns of the people were articulated and translated into legislation.

"It is the institution where laws are enacted, national issues are deliberated upon, and oversight is exercised to ensure the prudent utilization and protection of public resources," he added.

The prime minister further said Pakistan's parliamentary democracy has also made significant progress in promoting inclusivity and effective representation, adding as a truly representative institution, parliament provided a meaningful voice to women, minorities, smaller provinces, and other historically underrepresented segments of society.

He said "Constitutional safeguards have been established to ensure their participation and to protect their legitimate rights and interests. The reserved seats for women and non-Muslim citizens in the National Assembly and Senate stand as a testament to this constitutional commitment. The Senate, by providing equal representation to the federating units, further strengthens the federal character of Pakistan and contributes to national cohesion and unity."