Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has paid tribute to Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on his 78th death anniversary, praising his visionary leadership, political acumen and selfless service to the nation.
In his message, the prime minister said Quaid-i-Azam had changed the course of history by leading the Muslims of the subcontinent towards the establishment of an independent state despite facing immense challenges.
He said the Quaid had inspired Muslims to unite and struggle for the protection of their religious, cultural and ideological identity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz said Quaid-i-Azam’s political foresight, determination and exemplary leadership enabled the freedom movement to achieve its goal of an independent Pakistan. He said the country was created to protect the ideological freedom, political and religious rights, and economic and social interests of Muslims in the subcontinent.
The prime minister highlighted the challenges faced by the newly established state, including severe administrative and financial constraints, the mass migration of millions of people and the task of establishing a functioning government system. He said Quaid-i-Azam faced these challenges with statesmanship and confidence.
He said the Quaid had made it clear that Pakistan was founded on Islamic principles that guaranteed freedom of citizenship and religion, without discrimination based on colour or creed, as well as equal fundamental rights and responsibilities for all citizens.
Prime Minister Shehbaz said the best way to honour Quaid-i-Azam’s legacy was to work collectively for national unity, social harmony and economic stability and to build a Pakistan that reflected his vision, ideals and principles for future generations.
He said the nation prayed for the elevation of Quaid-i-Azam’s ranks and sought Allah Almighty’s blessings and mercy for the Father of the Nation.