Wed, September 16, 2026
Islamabad (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday paid rich tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on his 78th death anniversary, remembering his historic leadership, constitutional struggle and unwavering efforts for the political, religious and social rights of Muslims in the subcontinent.
In separate messages, the president and the premier highlighted the extraordinary role played by the founder of Pakistan in mobilising Muslims and turning their demand for rights into a successful struggle for an independent homeland.
President Asif Ali Zardari said Quaid-e-Azam dedicated his entire life to protecting the constitutional, legal, religious, cultural and fundamental human rights of Muslims in the subcontinent, ultimately guiding them towards the establishment of Pakistan.
He said the Quaid had visualised Pakistan as a country where Muslims living in Muslim-majority regions would be able to lead their lives freely, without the fear of domination under a Hindu-majority system and envisioned a peaceful society in which members of non-Muslim communities could also practise their faith without discrimination.
President Zardari said the founder's vision was evident in his speeches and actions, particularly in his landmark address of August 11, delivered just three days before Pakistan emerged as an independent state.
He said Quaid-e-Azam's life continued to offer an important lesson in determination, discipline and steadfastness. These qualities, he added, could provide the nation with the confidence and direction needed to deal with difficulties, crises and new opportunities.
The president emphasised that the nation should remember the Quaid's belief that lasting national strength depended on strong institutions trusted by the public, continuity of the constitutional system and equal treatment under the law.
He said political divisions and polarisation should be addressed through constitutional institutions, democratic mechanisms, meaningful dialogue and respect for the rule of law.
President Zardari stressed that the circumstances facing Pakistan demanded responsible leadership, seriousness and sustained hard work.
He said the country needed to make effective use of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), to modernise and strengthen its economy, expand opportunities for young people, enhance public services and ensure that development reached citizens across the country.
The president also stressed that Pakistan must continue safeguarding itself against external threats, terrorism, extremist ideologies and militant violence.
He reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to peace and stability in the region, saying the country, inspired by the principles of Quaid-e-Azam, would continue supporting dialogue and peaceful solutions to disputes at both regional and international levels.
President Zardari urged Pakistanis, particularly young people, to take inspiration from the life of the Quaid and confront difficult circumstances with courage, determination and self-belief instead of allowing despair to take hold.
The president described Pakistan's population of 250 million people, with its wide range of cultures and traditions, as a vibrant combination of different colours and fragrances.
He stressed that the country's diversity should be embraced as a source of strength rather than treated as a weakness.
The president also prayed for the elevation of the ranks of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and asked Allah Almighty to grant the nation the wisdom and determination required to fulfil the ideals and aspirations behind the creation of Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, describing him as an exceptional statesman whose vision, political wisdom and selfless leadership changed the course of history.
In his message, the prime minister said the Quaid succeeded in establishing the foundation of an independent homeland for Muslims despite facing extremely difficult circumstances and formidable opposition.
He said Quaid-e-Azam inspired Muslims across the subcontinent to unite with courage and determination and struggle to preserve their religious, cultural and ideological identity.
PM Shehbaz said the freedom movement ultimately achieved its objective because of the Quaid's political insight, foresight and outstanding leadership, which transformed the demand for freedom into the reality of an independent state.
He said Pakistan was created to protect the ideological freedom and political and religious rights of Muslims while also providing opportunities for their economic and social development.
The prime minister recalled that Quaid-e-Azam confronted the enormous difficulties facing the newly established country with remarkable confidence and statesmanship. These challenges included severe administrative and financial shortages, the arrival of millions of migrants and the task of establishing an effective system of government.
He said the Quaid had clearly stated that Pakistan was founded on Islamic principles that guaranteed freedom of citizenship and religion to everyone, without discrimination based on colour or creed, while ensuring equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens
PM Shehbaz said the transformation of Pakistan into a prosperous, developed and welfare-oriented country remained a key part of Quaid-e-Azam's political vision.
He stressed that national development, prosperity and public welfare could only be achieved through the collective efforts of the entire nation.
“Remaining firmly committed to Faith, Unity and Discipline Will provide future generations with direction and contribute towards a stronger national future,” PM Shehbaz noted.
The premier said that the most meaningful tribute to Quaid-e-Azam would be for the nation to work collectively towards strengthening unity, promoting social harmony and achieving economic stability.
PM Shehbaz said the entire nation was praying for the elevation of the ranks of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and prayed that Allah Almighty grant the Father of the Nation an exalted place in His infinite mercy.
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