Liaquat Ali
Islamabad: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader and Member of the National Assembly Natasha Daultana thus week described July 5, 1977 as the darkest day in Pakistan’s democratic history, saying the coup launched an assault on the Constitution, democracy and the people’s mandate.
In a message issued to mark Black Day, Daultana said the events of July 5 represented a defining moment that undermined constitutional rule and democratic institutions, leaving lasting consequences for Pakistan’s political development.
She paid tribute to Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, saying he made an eternal sacrifice in defence of the people’s right to rule and remained an enduring symbol of democratic resistance.
Daultana said the PPP had consistently stood against dictatorship throughout the country’s history and continued to uphold democratic values and constitutional governance.
She described the political struggle and sacrifices of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto as a shining example of the commitment to democracy, constitutional supremacy and the rights of the people.
The PPP lawmaker stressed that safeguarding democracy, protecting the Constitution and defending the people’s right to choose their representatives remained a collective national responsibility.
She reiterated that the party had unwavering faith in the strength of the people, constitutional supremacy and democratic institutions, adding that respect for the public mandate was essential for building a strong, stable and prosperous Pakistan.
According to Daultana, the sanctity of the vote remains the foundation of democratic governance and the guarantee of national stability.
She said Black Day serves as a reminder to renew the nation’s commitment to protecting democracy, upholding the Constitution and strengthening democratic traditions.
Daultana added that promoting constitutional supremacy and democratic values was the most meaningful way to honour the sacrifices of those who struggled for democratic rule, reaffirming that the Pakistan Peoples Party would continue its efforts for democracy, constitutional governance and the protection of the people’s rights.
