ISLAMABAD: On the first anniversary of the tragic events of May 9, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif jointly vowed that Pakistan would never again experience such turmoil and unrest.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took to X (formerly Twitter) to emphasize the importance of unity and sacrifice for the nation’s betterment.
Addressing the nation, he described May 9 as a day etched in the darkest annals of history, stressing the imperative to prioritize national interests above all else. He distinguished between those who sacrificed their lives for the country and those who sought to sow discord and hatred.
“May 9 is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a reminder of the sacrifices made by brave sons of the nation and a call to extinguish the flames of animosity,” remarked the Prime Minister. He reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating forces threatening peace and stability.
Acknowledging the lingering scars from the events, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism for the future, urging the nation to set ambitious goals for development and progress.
In his concluding remarks, he urged all citizens to unite in building a brighter future, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and cooperation in overcoming challenges ahead.
Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari denounced the events of May 9, 2023, as a dark day in Pakistan’s history when politically instigated violence tarnished the nation’s image.
He condemned the attacks on public and military property as an attempt to challenge the state’s authority and undermine the rule of law. While affirming the right to peaceful assembly and expression, he stressed the need for responsible exercise of these rights.
The President expressed pride in Pakistan’s Armed Forces and institutions while emphasizing accountability for those responsible for the violence. He called for political parties to promote tolerance, democratic values, and dialogue for the nation’s progress.