Gilani urges nation not to let any dictator rule again

ISLAMABAD, Feb 18 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani Wednesday urged the nation and political parties to strengthen democracy in the country so as not to allow undemocratic powers any chance to bring in dictatorship again. “The people of Pakistan will prove it to the world that they are the true flag bearers of democracy and a peace loving nation and will stand by the world in the fight against global terrorism,” Prime Minister Gilani said in a message to the nation on “Day of Democracy.” The day marks the first anniversary of the Feb 18 election last year that ended an era of dictatorship and brought in democracy to the country. Prime Minister Gilani paid rich tributes to the political leadership of the country that strived for the restoration of civil liberties, democracy and supremacy of parliament. “All the political parties are moving ahead with a resolve not to let anyone dare to impose an era of dictatorship in the country again.” Prime Minister Gilani said the threats of terrorism and lawlessness can only be eliminated with the support of the nation. He cited the recent peace accord in Swat and said it was a proof that the people of Pakistan can render any sacrifice for peace, brotherhood and writ of law, to usher in true democracy. The Prime Minister said the support for democracy, supremacy of parliament, strengthening of institutions, elimination of extremism and militancy, ensuring transparency and good governance and economic reforms were the priorities of his government. He said all such necessary measures would be taken to ensure that there was no return to dictatorship in the country. Gilani described difference of opinion as a beauty of a democratic system. He said the present government has always viewed it positively for self improvement and would continue to do so. The prime minister also greeted the nation on the day and said the Pakistan Peoples Party government will continue to work for advancement of the democratic culture in the country. He said the people of Pakistan voted for a change on Feb 18, 2008, for the supremacy of democracy and to uphold their civil rights; an event that will go down in history with golden words. The decision of the nation proved beyond doubt that the people of Pakistan always take right decisions for the sake of democracy. “The people of Pakistan voted for democratic forces, bringing an end to the era of dictatorship from the country for good.” Gilani vowed that the present government will leave no stone unturned for strengthening of democratic norms, people and welfare oriented tasks, end of unemployment and supremacy of law, so as to put Pakistan on the path of progress and prosperity. He vowed that Pakistan will be turned into a true democratic, progressive, welfare state in the light of the vision of late Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.