Lahore: The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Central Punjab leadership, in a joint message on the 49th Black Day marking the overthrow of the elected government on July 5, 1977, said that the democratic journey of the country was interrupted when the government of former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was removed.
PPP Central Punjab President Raja Pervez Ashraf said that the imposition of martial law weakened parliament, the Constitution, and democratic institutions.
He stated that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto revived hopes for the restoration of democracy in 1988, while President Asif Ali Zardari voluntarily returned parliamentary powers in 2008, describing the restoration of the Constitution in its original spirit as a historic achievement of the PPP.
He said that the honor of Pakistan is linked with the sacrifices of the people,national institutions and the armed forces, adding that under the leadership of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the party continues its mission of public service.
PPP Central Punjab General Secretary Syed Hassan Murtaza said that July 5 remains a dark day in the country’s history when an elected government was overthrown under the banner of operation Fair Play. He emphasized that the supremacy of the Constitution, democratic continuity, respect for public opinion, and the rule of law were essential for building a strong, stable, and prosperous Pakistan.
Senior Vice President Rana Farooq Saeed termed July 5 as one of the darkest chapters in Pakistan’s democratic history, saying that the country continues to face the consequences of decisions taken during the Zia era.
He reiterated the party’s opposition to terrorism and extremism and said that the PPP seeks a strong, peaceful, and stable Pakistan rather than power for its own sake.
He added that the struggles of late Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto were dedicated to Pakistan and democracy while Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari would never compromise on national interests.
He said the party would continue its efforts to safeguard the people,the Constitution and democratic values.
PPP Central Punjab Information Secretary Shahzad Saeed Cheema said that the martial law imposed on July 5 deprived the people of their constitutional right to vote.
He described the Constitution as a sacred social contract between the state and its citizens and stressed that democratic continuity was indispensable for the country’s progress and stability.
He further said that Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was pursuing politics based on constitutional supremacy, parliamentary democracy and the protection of public rights.
He emphasized that the party envisions a Pakistan where freedom of expression is protected, the Constitution reigns supreme, and democracy guarantees the rights of the people and national stability.