Fri, September 18, 2026
Islamabad (Web Desk): International Day of Democracy is being commemorated today (Monday) worldwide, with Pakistan also joining the global observance.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have expressed their firm resolve to take all possible measures to safeguard and promote democratic values and norms in the country.
In their separate messages on International Day of Democracy today (Monday), they stressed the need for joint endeavours for strengthening democratic institutions.
President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message on World Democracy Day, urged the people of Pakistan to reaffirm their commitment to nurturing and protecting democracy, calling it the true driving force for building a stronger and more inclusive country.
He described democracy as a system that empowers citizens, guarantees their rights, and ensures their active participation in political, economic, and social life.
He said its essence lies not only in procedure but in substance, rooted in tolerance, pluralism, respect for opposing views, and the protection of social, cultural, and economic rights of all citizens.
The President reflected on Pakistan’s democratic journey, recalling the sacrifices of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, whose vision and struggle laid the foundation for the restoration of democracy and the strengthening of national institutions.
He stressed the vital role of Parliament as the voice of the people, responsible for shaping policies, addressing national challenges, and promoting inclusivity.
Highlighting the Constitution of 1973 as the nation’s greatest democratic achievement, President Zardari said it guarantees equality before the law under Article 25, safeguards individual freedoms, ensures the rightful place of federating units, and empowers Parliament to legislate for unity and inclusive growth.
He emphasized that values enshrined in the Constitution—freedom, justice, equality, tolerance, and rule of law—must guide the nation in addressing present challenges and shaping a prosperous future.
He concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to democracy, stressing that only through strengthening institutions, pursuing reforms, and deepening democratic practices can the country secure equality, socio-economic justice, freedom of expression, and resilience.
In his message on the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding democracy, fundamental rights, and collective progress, emphasizing that the people, institutions, and government will work together to shape a prosperous future.
He said democracy is essentially the people’s voice and their participation in governance. He underscored the pivotal role of the 1973 Constitution in establishing and nurturing a democratic system in Pakistan.
Highlighting the global observance of the International Day of Democracy every year on September 15 under the United Nations, the Prime Minister said it provides nations with an opportunity to reflect on the diversity, resilience, and effectiveness of democracy worldwide.
The premier noted that Parliament occupies a central position among democratic institutions, being empowered to enact legislation that safeguards public welfare and national interest.
Under the Constitution, he said, Parliament frames laws based on collective wisdom, which are then implemented by the government. Referring to Article 25 of the Constitution, he stressed that every citizen enjoys equality before the law, and fundamental rights remain fully protected.
PM Shehbaz added that the Constitution also strengthens the federation by granting equal status and roles to all provinces. He highlighted provisions ensuring women’s participation in all spheres of life, especially Parliament, along with constitutional measures to guarantee the representation and protection of minorities, including their religious freedom.
He remarked that adherence to the Constitution—ensuring rule of law, freedom, social equality, and national unity—equips any country to resolve its challenges effectively. He further stressed that following democratic principles enables nations to cope with modern-day difficulties.
On the international front, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan has consistently stood by efforts to promote and protect democratic values in line with United Nations principles and global commitments.
He underlined that Pakistan’s advocacy for democracy aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to peace, justice, and strong institutions.
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