ISLAMABAD, 15 September 2026 (Kamran Raja): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to upholding the fundamental values of democracy, including equality, justice, freedom and the rule of law, as the country observed the International Day of Democracy. In his message on the occasion, the prime minister said democracy provided an opportunity to reaffirm respect for the will of the people, safeguard human dignity and strengthen democratic institutions. He said that in a democratic system, authority was exercised through elected representatives for the welfare and well-being of the people, while Parliament, as the central democratic institution, represented their voice and aspirations. Shehbaz Sharif said the Constitution of Pakistan provided the legal framework governing relations between the state and citizens, with Article 25 guaranteeing equality before the law and equal rights for all citizens. He said Pakistan’s federal parliamentary democratic system entrusted Parliament with the responsibility of legislation in accordance with public interest and Islamic principles, while formulating laws in line with public aspirations and contemporary needs remained one of its fundamental responsibilities. The prime minister stressed that strengthening democratic values was essential to address present-day challenges and ensure a prosperous future. He also highlighted the constitutional commitment to ensuring women’s full participation in national life, noting that reserved seats had been provided for women in the federal and provincial legislatures to ensure effective representation. He said the state was equally committed to protecting the rights and legitimate interests of minorities, with reserved seats for non-Muslim citizens in the federal and provincial legislatures ensuring their representation.