On Democracy Day, President Zardari, PM Shehbaz seek more inclusivity, justice

• Zardari says democracy stands as cornerstone of just society.
• Govt’s commitment to constitutionalism, democracy firm: PM.
• Prime Minister Shehbaz calls for efforts to build equal world.

ISLAMABAD: On the International Day of Democracy, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have reaffirmed the commitment to democracy, demanding more inclusivity and justice in the world.

The Democracy Day is observed every year on September 15 since 2007 with this year’s theme focusing on the importance of Artificial Intelligence as a tool for good governance.

On this occasion, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for harnessing AI benefits while mitigating its risks.

President Zardari, expressing his commitment to democracy, said that the resolution of the nation’s issues lied in a vibrant and inclusive democratic process.

"We commemorate the democracy day to highlight the importance of democracy in empowering citizens and promoting their active participation in the political process,” he said in a message released by the President House.

He said democracy stood as the cornerstone of a just society, advocating for the protection of fundamental rights and enabling political, economic, and social inclusion.

This year, he said, the global theme highlighted the potential of AI in advancing good governance.

"AI has the potential to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public administration, making it a key tool in modern governance. AI can provide data-driven insights and thus make the democratic process more transparent and accessible for voters by sharing important information about the candidates and their policies," he added.

President Zardari emphasised that democracy stood for people's participation in the political process, political pluralism, and their rights. Its advocacy for the political, economic and social rights of citizens distinguishes it from other forms of government, he added.

“As we observe this day, we also recognise the role that our parliament plays in safeguarding democracy by representing the will of the people, formulating public policy, and addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. It is the primary forum for addressing grievances, ensuring inclusivity, and fostering a resilient future for Pakistan," the president said.

He said it was through democratic principles that Pakistan could achieve equality, socio-economic justice, the rule of law, and freedom of expression.

The president stressed that as Pakistan faced contemporary challenges, it was highly essential to strengthen democratic institutions, undertake reforms, and work collectively to consolidate democracy.

“Let us recommit ourselves to upholding democratic values and ensuring that democracy continues to flourish in Pakistan,” he maintained.

Meanwhile, in a message, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed the country's unwavering commitment to democracy, constitutionalism, rule of law, and human rights on the occasion of International Day of Democracy.

The prime minister emphasised that democracy was a fundamental value of human society.

“Our government’s commitment to constitutionalism, democracy, rule of law and human rights is firm and unwavering. Adherence to these democratic values is our calling as a nation,” he added.

The prime minister called for continuing the efforts to build a more inclusive, just, and equal world for all.

“Together, we can strengthen the foundations of democracy and ensure that it serves as a beacon of hope and progress for future generations,” he added.