Rededicating ourselves to the cause of democracy, federalism & rule of law pivotal for stronger, more inclusive & prosperous Pak: NA Speaker

ISLAMABAD, Mar 15 (SABAH): Speaker National Assembly Raja Pervez Ashraf has said that the day of Golden Jubilee celebration of Senate indicates 50 years of  Senate’s contribution to strengthening democracy and ensuring national cohesion. He said that this day also marked the achievements of parliamentary system and its contribution for development of country.

Raja Pervez Ashraf expressed these views while addressing the participants on the occasion of Golden Jubilee Celebration of Senate of Pakistan in Islamabad on Wednesday.
While outlining the perspective and brief history of Senate, he expressed that it was 1973 Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan which came out with a second House named Senate. He also added, “Provincial autonomy was the long demanded right of provinces brought about by the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, that gave a new and dynamic role to the Senate.” He also said that it was 18th Amendment which strengthened the Parliamentary democracy in country.

While talking about the inclusion of senators in the Public Accounts committee (PAC), he said that it was also a historic development that had been achieved through systematic and consistent endeavors. Raja Pervez Ashraf also said, “A bicameral legislature has become the necessity of multicultural federations since it best satisfies the needs of the federating units by giving them equal representation to participate in legislation and accountability processes.”

While emphasizing the critical role offered by the Senate , Raja Pervez Ashraf said that it had served a critical check on the power of the executive and had been instrumental in shaping legislative policies. He said that this day also reflects on the past 50 years, we take pride in the Senate’s accomplishments in promoting democracy, transparency, and accountability.

Raja Pervez Ashraf paid tribute to all those who have served in the Senate of Pakistan over the past half a century, and to those who continue to serve in this august house. He also said that this year also celebrates the Golden Jubilee of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, this truly is a momentous occasion for whole nation.He paid heartfelt tribute to Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Under whose leadership, the Constitution of 1973 was drafted and adopted, which remains the supreme law of the land to this day. He added, “The Constitution enshrines the principles of democracy, federalism, and the rule of law, and provides for the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.”

The NA Speaker also said “Today, Pakistan stands at a crossroads of time. We are facing many challenges, but we also have many opportunities.” He suggested that let’s work together  to take our country towards the light of hope, where progress, prosperity, and peace are possible as it was not time to  rest on  laurel. He emphasized on working across party lines and personal interests.

Raja Pervez Ashraf also reiterated that commemoration of such events is of paramount importance, as it allows to reflect on shared history, celebrate achievements, and renew  commitment to the values and principles that define Pakistani  nation.