On the 77th anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam’s passing, the president appeals for reforms and unity.

In his speech on the 77th anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s passing, President Asif Ali Zardari paid a heartfelt homage to the Father of the Nation and encouraged Pakistanis to be inspired by his ideas of democracy, equality, justice, and tolerance.

According to a news release from the Presidency, the President claimed that Quaid-e-Azam had not only given the Muslims of the Subcontinent a homeland but also their dignity, identity, and self-respect.

He underlined, “His dream was of a progressive, inclusive, and forward-looking country where all citizens would enjoy equal rights and opportunities, regardless of religion, caste, or creed.”

President Zardari emphasized recent events in India and claimed that the way minorities were treated by the government, which was backed by the RSS, had once again confirmed the validity of the two-nation theory. Minority communities in India itself admit that their social, political, and religious rights are no longer guaranteed. These events confirm that the establishment of Pakistan was not only appropriate but also unavoidable,” he said.

The President acknowledged the difficulties Pakistan faces today, from economic hardship and climate change to extremism and institutional reforms. He said the country should emulate Quaid-e-Azam and the leaders of the Pakistan Movement, who overcame great odds by being united and resolute.

“This is Pakistan’s pivotal time. President Zardari exhorted, “Let us reaffirm our resolve to build the nation that Quaid envisioned—a democratic state, governed by the rule of law and accountable institutions.” He emphasized the need of respecting minorities, empowering women, and providing chances for young people.

The President reaffirmed that Quaid’s core values of “unity, faith, and discipline” are still as applicable now as they were in 1947. “There is no obstacle we cannot conquer if we honor his legacy with authenticity and action. Insha’Allah, I have faith that we can strengthen and flourish Pakistan by implementing the principles of the Quaid,” he said.