On the International Day of Democracy, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles that underpin democratic governance and Pakistan’s constitutional order: the sovereignty and will of the people, equality, freedom, human dignity, justice, the rule of law, and respect for dissent and minority points of view.
Democracy gives citizens a meaningful voice in the decisions that shape their lives and makes those who exercise public authority accountable to the people. Democracy does not mean the unchecked rule of the majority. A genuine democracy requires the majority to listen to, respect and accommodate the legitimate rights and voices of minorities.
For Pakistan, democracy is indispensable to overcoming the longstanding challenges faced by our people. Representative institutions, accountable government and the rule of law enable public policy to respond more effectively to people’s needs, improve access to essential services, reduce inequality and create opportunities for all. Strong democratic institutions are therefore essential to building a peaceful, inclusive, stable and prosperous Pakistan.
Pakistan’s democratic journey has been sustained by the courage, perseverance and sacrifices of political leaders, parties, workers, civil society and citizens. Under the historic leadership of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Pakistan achieved a defining democratic milestone through the unanimous adoption of the Constitution of 1973. It established our federal parliamentary order, guaranteed fundamental rights and provided the constitutional framework for provincial autonomy. It remains the foundation of our democratic system and the bond that holds the federation together.
Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the Shaheed-e-Jamhooriat, carried forward this struggle with extraordinary courage and ultimately laid down her life for democracy. We also honour all political leaders, workers and citizens who endured persecution and made sacrifices in defence of the Constitution and the people’s right to govern themselves.
On this day, let us renew our collective resolve to uphold the Constitution, protect fundamental rights, strengthen Parliament and other democratic institutions, promote tolerance and dialogue, and ensure the meaningful participation of women, young people and minorities in national life.
The strength of democracy lies in the trust and participation of the people. What is a minority view today may become the majority view tomorrow. That is why every point of view must be heard and respected. Democracy may be noisy, but human history has produced no better system of government. Silence prevails only in graveyards; a living society must remain open to debate, dissent and peaceful disagreement. We must ensure that the will of the people remains the ultimate source of political authority and the guiding force of our system of government.
