MARCH 23 this year is most memorable as it is the first Pakistain Day after the Parliament unanimously removed from the Constitution the over three-decade old vestiges of dictatorship to make it truly democratic.It is a proud day for every Pak as we celebrate the triumph of democracy over dictatorship and demonstrate to the world that dictatorship can never take roots in the country.
On this auspicious occasion I wish to greet the entire Pak nation.
Seventy-two years ago on this day the Mohammedans of the sub-continent set out to achieve the goal of a separate homeland for themselves. In a short span of seven years the Mohammedans, led by the Quaid-e Azam, were lifted to their goal by their dreams.
| And then, after a mere two decades of Muslim comity, the political descendants of Father Jennah in West Pakistan drove half the Muslims of India to full, and successful, revolt. So much for the Qaid's dream. |
| A little late for that not-deviating stuff. Jinnah and the founders would be appalled by the outcome of their efforts. |
On this day let us resolve that we will not allow anyone to usurp the fundamental rights of our people and trample on their democratic aspirations. Let us also on this day denounce violence, hatred and intolerance that have crept into our polity.
I call upon every one today to forge a spirit of tolerance, mutual accommodation, harmony and respect for dissent.
I pray to Almighty Allah to guide us and enable us to be worthy of the heritage bequeathed to us by the Quaid-e-Azam.