_: Former Senator Dr Jehanzeb Jamaldini said that the Senate should review its role and determine whether it has succeeded in addressing the issue of federating units.
He said that the powers of every institution are determined in the constitution of the country, but unfortunately, some of them have exceeded their powers.
He said that democratic institutions have been weakened in the past and urged the institutions not to intervene in parliamentary affairs in future. The supremacy of parliament is the only way to resolve the issues being faced by the country, he maintained.
Senator Atta ur Rehman said that the constitution of Pakistan should be respected and the state should be built as per the teachings of Islam.
Senator Behramand Tangi welcomed all the former senators and others for attending the session.
He demanded more financial powers for the Senate, especially in the budget and hoped that the Chairman of the Senate would play his role.
Senator Danesh Kumar said that the Senate represents all federating units of the country. He said that seats were reserved for minorities in Parliament after the passage of the 18th amendment and demanded more seats for minorities to address the issue of community.
Senator Danesh Kumar appealed to all political leaders to shun their differences for Pakistan and contribute together to resolve the issue.
Senator Farooq H. Naek said that the Senate has played a central role in the advancement of Pakistan during the last 50 years and it has been a symbol of democracy and solidarity.
He said that the Senate is a platform to protect the rights of the people by maintaining balance in Parliament. “We must acknowledge challenges lying ahead and we need to work together beyond party politics,” he added.
Senator Hidayatullah said that Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto gave the constitution to the country and he would be remembered for this great achievement.
He said that the economic situation of the country is worse and political wisdom should be demonstrated to overcome these crises.
Senator Faiz Muhammad highlighted the issue of missing persons and asked the Chairman of the Senate to play his role in addressing these issues.
He prayed for the bright future of the country and said that unity is the only way to steer the country out of the challenges.