Asif Ali Zardari to Take Oath as Pakistan’s 14th President

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari is poised to assume the prestigious role of Pakistan’s 14th President, with his oath-taking ceremony scheduled for today at 4pm in the distinguished surroundings of the President House in Islamabad, as reported by 24NewsHD TV channel.

Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Qazi Faez Isa will administer the oath of office to Zardari, underscoring the solemnity of the occasion. The ceremony is expected to be attended by a distinguished gathering, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Army Chief Asim Munir, chief ministers from Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan, as well as diplomats representing various nations.

In the recent presidential election, Asif Zardari emerged victorious, securing a significant mandate with 411 votes, as per the Election Commission of Pakistan’s official notification. His closest rival, Mehmood Khan Achakzai, the candidate backed by the PTI-supported Sunni Ittehad Council, garnered 181 votes.

Zardari’s support cut across various political domains, with substantial backing from the National Assembly, Senate, Sindh Assembly, Punjab Assembly, and a notable presence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan assemblies.

In his remarks following the election, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, acknowledging the fairness of the electoral process, highlighted the absence of vote-buying or selling—a departure from previous norms. He expressed gratitude to the PTI leadership for their support, signaling a spirit of unity and collaboration among political entities.

The peaceful and transparent conduct of the presidential election underscores Pakistan’s commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law. As Zardari assumes office, expectations run high for his leadership to navigate the nation through challenges and steer towards progress and prosperity for all Pakistanis.

The transition of power from one democratically elected leader to another reflects the resilience and maturity of Pakistan’s democratic institutions, setting a positive precedent for the nation’s political landscape. As Pakistan looks ahead to a new era under Zardari’s presidency, hopes are buoyed for a future marked by stability, inclusivity, and progress.