Fayyaz Butt
(MPA Sindh Assembly)
9th September 2008 was a date in Pakistan’s political history when a political genius was elected as President of the country. He with his policy of “Democracy is the best revenge” not only ousted a dictator from power but also laid foundation of democratic stability in the country. His relentless struggle during last 5 years showed his willingness and determination to hold the nation together.
Who can forget 27th December 2007, the most tragic night of our history, when our beloved leader Benazir Bhutto was martyred in Liaquat Bagh, Rawalpindi. Though, it was and has been a personally irrepressible loss to him.
Mr. Zardari never talked about revenge. He at that most unfortunate incident, despite various voices of dissent, declared “Pakistan Khappay” and with his acts he proved these words. He compromised and sacrificed for the sake of country and the Nation.
People argue that completion of term by a President is no big deal. They are wrong, his tenure as President has been unprecedented, to say the least. He has been the first democratically elected President who is completing his term of office and during this period has managed to address 6 joint sessions of parliament and worked with 4 different Prime Ministers, including Mr. Nawaz Shareef.
His determination and self esteem enabled him to serve the Nation despite all odds and conspiracies. The hatred of his foes made him strong and determined to deliver and he did so with flying colours. It is often said about politician that they are power hungry and want to enjoy absolute and utmost authority, but Mr. Zardari proved this notion wrong. He for the sake of sustainable democracy and democratic institutions, decided to transfer his powers to the parliament through 18th Amendment. He opted to let go his Authority to dissolve parliament, dismiss Prime Minister and appoint Services Chiefs, only in larger national interest. It was a brave and courageous step keeping in mind Pakistan’s political scenario.
His policy of reconciliation assembled various political parties with different ideologies and manifestos, at one platform for the sake of Pakistan. During his tenure, he remained source of guidance and inspiration for the political forces. He also accommodated MQM, ANP, JUI and other parties in PPP led Federal and Provincial Governments. He tried to create and promote politics of tolerance and consensus to address and resolve important national isues with the participation of all stake holders.
He is a strong believer and sincere pupil of political philosophy of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto. He learned politics from Shaheed Rani and practiced the same after her martyrdom in such a manner that it would make her proud. His political farsightedness and vision is second to none. After the unfortunate event of 27th December 2007, he gathered himself and started his journey to the steep and barbed path of Pakistani politics. He not only faced external threats but also had to weather internal storms and challenges during last 5 years.
His first challenge after leading the party to victory in 2008 General Elections, was to get rid of a dictator who had manipulated and ruined all political institutions to satisfy his ego. The dictator had derailed democracy for his personal gains. Parliament was made hostage and all offices were answerable only to the dictator. Mr. Zardari evolved a strategy to oust him, and as a result his plans to continue to rule and besiege political institutions further, were defeated. The dictator was forced to leave power after 9 years of authoritarian rule.
With the arrival of Mr. Zardari at Presidency 5 years ago, an era of reconciliation, tolerance, constitutional reformation and economic activity started, which would unfortunately end today. It was a period during which Presidency become the symbol of unity and dignity of the Nation. Its incumbent never let his countrymen down and always worked and acted according to the aspirations of Pakistanis.
Under his able leadership and guidance, the democratic government of Pakistan Peoples Party endeavored its utmost to facilitate provinces and their masses. One of the biggest achievements of Peoples Government was restoration of 1973 Constitutions. Especially passage of 18th, 19th and 20th Amendments ensured more powers to the provinces. With these amendments Democracy and Parliament were made stronger. Many powers of President were shifted to Prime Minister and Parliament, including Command of National Command Authority, the body responsible for security of nukes.
The approval of 7th National Finance Commission (NFC) Award was also a significant achievement of President Zardari’s time in office. Provinces become financially stable with this award. An outstanding gain on economic front was rise in exports, which eclipsed US $ 24 billion and foreign exchange reserves reached all time high i.e. US $ 17 billion. Karachi Stock Exchange also touched new heights, reaching the level of 22000 points.
Interest rates were also reduced from 17% in 2008 to 9% in 2013. The rural economy was increased from Rs.50 billion in 2008 to Rs. 800 billion in 2013. It all stamp on a sound economic policy of the previous government. Introduction of Aghaz-e-Huqooq-Baluchistan package, empowerment of Gilgit Baltistan, enforcement of Nizam-e-Adl regulation in Malakand Division, distribution of Rs. 70 billion among 75 lac poor families through Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) and 158% increase in the salaries, regularization and reinstatement of thousand of government servants during last 5 years, also indicates last democratic government’s resolve towards masses.
Signing of agreements of Gawadar Port with China and Gas Pipeline with Iran and addition of 360 MW electricity in system also shows the previous government’s commitment for accelerated economic development. Peace with neighboring countries has always been priority of Mr. Zardari. He has worked tirelessly for peace in Afghanistan, engaging with all stake holders for long lasting peace in this neighboring country
He fulfilled all the aspiration of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. He was imprisoned after the fall of both PPP Governments in 1990 and 1996. He spent more than 10 years collectively in confinement, with great courage and bravery. Knowing that he has an enormous task ahead him, which could also take his life, he embarked upon this difficult journey to steer and guide the nation to a smooth path.
Mr. Zardari has shown to the world that his political vision and wisdom is second to none.
I salute you on behalf of whole nation – Mr. President
