PESHAWAR
\nAs the world observed the International Day of Democracy on September 15, Pakistan joined the global community in reaffirming its strong commitment to democratic principles, political empowerment, and inclusive governance for well being of masses.
\nGovernment, political leaders, workers, academics, civil society representatives, and youth activists across the country marked the signficance day with renewed pledges to uphold democratic norms, rule of law, reinforce the supremacy of Parliament, ensure electoral transparency, and protect fundamental freedoms including judicial independence and freedom of expression in Pakistan.
\nThis year\u2019s theme of the day, \u201censuring effective governance of artficial intellegence (AI) at all levels,\u201d observed under UN charter reflected the rising influence of artificial intelligence in shaping democratic governance and policy-making across the globe.
\nIn Pakistan, political experts emphasized the need for policies and reforms that ensure AI enhances rather than undermines democratic participation and rights of people.
\nPresident Asif Ali Zardari, in his message to the nation on International Democracy Day, urged citizens to renew their dedication to democracy.
\n\u201cWorld Democracy Day serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of democracy in empowering citizens and fostering their active engagement in the political process,\u201d he said.
\nHe emphasized that democracy forms the foundation of a just and inclusive society, safeguarding fundamental rights and ensuring political, economic, and social participation for all.
\nPrime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif echoed almost similar sentiments in his statement on the day, reaffirming the government\u2019s resolve to protect democratic principles and fundamental rights.
\n\u201cDemocracy is the voice of the people and the participation of citizens in the system of governance. The 1973 Constitution holds a key and prominent role in establishing a democratic system in Pakistan,\u201d the Prime Minister said.
\nHe described Parliament as the cornerstone of democracy, empowered to legislate for the protection of public and national interests.
\nHighlighting Article 25 of the Constitution, he reiterated the state\u2019s commitment to equality before the law and the protection of citizens\u2019 fundamental rights. He further said that the Constitution provides equal status to all provinces and fostering federal harmony besides women empowerment.
\n\u201cPakistan\u2019s democratic journey aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, particularly in promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions,\u201d he added.
\nProfessor Dr. A.H. Hilali, former Chairman of the Political Science Department, described the 1973 Constitution as the backbone of Pakistan\u2019s democratic framework.
\n\u201cIt not only defines fundamental rights but also protects them, ensuring the participation of women in Parliament, rule of law, religious freedom, and social equality,\u201d he said.
\nHowever, he expressed concern over the repeated derailment of democracy in the country\u2019s history, which has weakened political institutions.
\n\u201cDue to political intolerance and constitutional disruptions, no elected Prime Minister has been able to complete a full five-year term in Pakistan,\u201d Dr. Hilali observed, underlining the need for institutional continuity and democratic resilience.
\nAt a youth-led seminar in Peshawar, 24-year-old student activist Sumbal Bibi called for increased political inclusion of marginalized groups.
\nShe emphasized the voting rights of overseas Pakistanis, greater representation in Parliament, and enhanced reserved seats for women.
\n\u201cDemocracy must include every voice especially those of young people, women, and overseas citizens who remain underrepresented,\u201d she said.
\nNoman Bukhari advocate called for strengthening rule of law and freedom of expression for safeguarding democratic principles.
\nAcross Pakistan, civil society organizations, student groups, and media platforms hosted webinars and workshops highlighting the significance of democracy in ensuring accountability, transparency, and civic engagement.
\nAs Pakistan continues to consolidate its democratic journey following the last general elections, International Day of Democracy 2025 served as both a celebration and a call to action.
\nSpeakers and participants across platforms in KP reiterated that democracy is more than a system of governance but it is a way of life grounded in inclusion, participation, dialogue, and rule of law.
\n\u201cDemocracy offers peaceful solutions to national challenges. Political leadership must come together for much-needed electoral reforms and dialogue to further strengthen democratic institutions,\u201d urged Dr Hilali.
\nHe said the absence of politcal dialogue in the past has led to abrogation of the constitution and extra constitutional steps, resultantly democracy suffers.
\nWith its reaffirmed dedication to constitutional governance, Pakistan looks ahead to fostering a vibrant civic and democratic culture, responsive institutions, and a future shaped by the collective will of its people.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
PESHAWAR As the world observed the International Day of Democracy on September 15, Pakistan joined the global community in reaffirming its strong commitment to democratic principles, political empowerment, and inclusive governance for well being of masses. Government, political leaders, workers, academics, civil society representatives, and youth activists across the country marked the signficance day with […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-503056","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","6":"category-peshawar"},"yoast_head":"\n