Zardari turns to Jinnah, says Pak won't be theocratic State

Islamabad: Pakistan will not be a theocratic State, former President Asif Ali Zardari said Saturday.

In a message on the eve of the 140th birth anniversary of father of nation Mohammed Ali Jinnah — to be celebrated on Sunday — he said: “A central thought of the Father of the Nation Mohammed Ali Jinnah in creating Pakistan was that it will be a democratic and progressive state and not a theocratic one in which thoughts and actions of individuals are controlled by a few in the name of ideology.”

“On the eve of our leader’s anniversary let us pledge to remain focused on the central principles for which the country was created by its founding fathers,” he said.

Constitutionalism, rule of law, equality and equal opportunities to citizens without any prejudice of religion, cast and creed are the guiding principles behind the creation of Pakistan, he said.

“There is a need for introspection in the direction the State has taken; whether ideology and religion are being misused to negate the pristine principles of the State and to stifle dissent and free expression,” he added.

Mr Zardari said Pakistanis need to “ask ourselves whether course correction is needed”. He called for a review of administrative and legislative structures that militate against the principle of equality. The nation, he warned, will slip into instability if the founding principles were disregarded.

“On this occasion we also reiterate our resolve to fight the enemies within who seek to destroy the state in the name of ideology or religion,” he said.

He said the Pakistan People’s Party reiterates its resolve to defend the founding principles of Pakistan and to fight extremism and militancy to the finish.

“We also pay homage to all those in the armed forces, the police, the civilian law enforcing agencies and the people who have made huge sacrifices in the fight against extremists and militants,” Mr Zardari said.