On the first anniversary of the tragic events of May 9, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that such turmoil and unrest are never repeated in the nation’s history.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking through X, emphasized the significance of unity and sacrifice for the nation’s advancement. He described May 9 as a day engraved in the darkest pages of history, stressing the importance of prioritizing national interests above all else. He also highlighted the need to distinguish between those who sacrificed their lives for the country and those who sought to spread discord and hatred.
The Prime Minister remarked that May 9 serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by brave individuals and a call to extinguish the flames of animosity. He reiterated his commitment to eliminating forces that threaten the peace and stability of the country.
Reflecting on the year since the tragic events, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the lasting impact of that day on the nation’s collective memory. However, he expressed hope for the future, urging the nation to move forward and set ambitious goals for development and progress.
In his closing statements, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called upon all citizens to unite in building a brighter future for future generations. He emphasized the importance of solidarity and collaboration in overcoming the challenges ahead, reaffirming his unwavering dedication to serving the people of Pakistan.
May 9 will always be remembered as a dark day: Zardari
President Asif Ali Zardari has characterized May 9, 2023, as a somber day in Pakistan’s history, marked by politically instigated violence that swept across the nation, resulting in widespread damage to public property and military installations.
In a statement released by the President’s House, President Zardari condemned the violence, noting its detrimental impact on Pakistan’s reputation, which only served the interests of the nation’s adversaries. He denounced the mob attacks as an affront to the state’s authority, an assault on the rule of law, and a weakening of institutional integrity.
President Zardari underscored the importance of peaceful demonstrations and constructive criticism in a democracy, highlighting that Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees the rights of assembly and expression. However, he emphasized the need to exercise these rights responsibly within the boundaries of constitutional and legal frameworks, warning against any attempt to exploit them to incite violence.
Reflecting on the unprecedented vandalism witnessed during the disturbances, President Zardari expressed admiration for Pakistan’s Armed Forces and institutions, which have steadfastly defended the nation against various threats. He insisted that those responsible for the violence must be held accountable under the law.
President Zardari acknowledged Pakistan’s multifaceted challenges and lamented that such irresponsible actions by political factions not only impede national progress but also exacerbate socio-economic difficulties. He called for unity among political parties to foster tolerance, uphold democratic principles, engage in political dialogue, and provide clear guidance to the nation amidst the current political climate.
