Senate chairman seeks cooperation to combat poverty, strengthen democracy

MULTAN: Senate chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, advocating for progress in policy and strengthening democracy, called for collaboration with allies and continued support from the wealthy to address poverty alongside government efforts.

Following the Eid prayer, he spoke to journalists and expressed his determination to improve the country’s economic state with the help of all allies. He also said that a delegation from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) visited him in his chamber after the Senate election and requested for a parliamentary leader and opposition leader to be appointed, which they promised to support PTI.

The Senate chairman said that he himself has been in jail, and the cases of political opponents are still under hearing. He further said that on the occasion of Eid, the oppressed Palestinians must be remembered, and the testimonies of the Palestinians should not be in vain. He said that their enemies are attacking brave men, and they condemn it, today they must remember those who were martyred while protecting their country. He said that he has been given a great responsibility in difficult circumstances, and he will try to fulfill the aspirations of the nation. Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said that the common citizen should feel that he is getting relief, and political parties should give relief to oppressed have-nots. He said that the Sanet is a symbol of federation, he will try to fulfill the hopes of all the members and take everyone together.

Referring to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the Gaza Strip of Palestine, Gilani said the Israeli war had destroyed the whole infrastructure of the territory, pushing the entire population into starvation. “We shouldn’t forget our Kashmiri brethren also on the auspicious occasion of Eid,” he added. Replying to a query, the Senate chairman said the troops of the Pakistan Armed Forces were sacrificing their lives for the defence of the country. “We should not forget the sacrifices of our soldiers who have saved our future.”

He said the Pakistan People’s Party had a principal stance on a separate province for South Punjab and he highlighted Pakistan People’s Party’s efforts on the issue, including passing a bill in the Senate, and suggested future steps for mobilizing public opinion in favour of the Saraiki province.

Meanwhile, Gilani, in his message on Constitution Day, honored the leaders who drafted the 1973 Constitution, noting its role in strengthening Pakistan’s Federation and promoting unity through the establishment of the Upper House. Constitution Day is recognized by the Senate of Pakistan. During meetings with businesspersons, traders, and dignitaries at his residence, Gilani emphasized the importance of unity in promoting democracy and addressing problems. He called on all democratic forces to support the constitution, strengthen the democratic system, and contribute to Pakistan’s development and prosperity. Gilani assured local businessmen and elders that special economic zones would be established in Multan to create jobs and spur development, which would become visible after Eid. He mentioned a special fund for Multan’s development and urged the wealthy to support the poor to alleviate inflation’s impact.