National leadership reaffirms democratic values

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to democratic governance, the Constitution, the rule of law and respect for dissent and minority rights. In their messages marking the International Day of Democracy on Sept 15, the president and premier said democracy gives citizens a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their lives and holds public authorities accountable. "Democracy does not mean unchecked majority rule. A genuine democracy requires the majority to listen to, respect and accommodate the legitimate rights and voices of minorities," the President Secretariat quoted President Zardari as saying in a statement. Separately, the prime minister said Pakistan remained firmly committed to upholding the fundamental values of democracy, including equality, justice and freedom, as the country joined the international community in observing the International Day of Democracy. He said the occasion provided an opportunity to reaffirm the nation's resolve to respect the will of the people, safeguard human dignity and uphold the rule of law.