PPP gave unprecedented sacrifices for democracy: Gilani

       
ISLAMABAD, Oct 21 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said that Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) has given unprecedented sacrifices for democracy in the country. “Our government believes in strengthening institutions and we respect the independence of parliament, judiciary and media,” he added.
The Prime Minister was talking to former Senator Iqbal Haider, Co-Chairperson Human Rights Commission of Pakistan who called on him at Prime Minister House Thursday afternoon.
The Prime Minister said his government respects decisions of the judiciary.
Today’s decision has enhanced the respect of parliament, he added and termed it the fruit of his policy of reconciliation.
He said all institutions should work in their ambit and respect each other’s role. He added that for the first time in history of Pakistan, all political parties in parliament had unanimously adopted the 18th amendment.
The Prime Minister said parliament is a sovereign body and it is the duty of parliamentarians to defend and promote democratic norms.
He reiterated the stance of his government that PPP does not believe in political victimization. “The absence of any political prisoner in the country is a proof of my stance,” he added.
Iqbal Haider hailed the decision of the Supreme Court regarding 18th Constitutional Amendment and termed it a step in the right direction.
He further said it will pave the way for strengthening of democratic institutions.
Chairperson Human Rights Commission apprised the Prime Minister of the latest report of Human Rights Commission of Pakistan.
He discussed with him the issue of missing persons as well.
The Prime Minister said he has already directed the Minister for Interior to look into the matter and make arrangements to provide relief to the aggrieved families.