Political workers demand intra-party democracy

Islamabad:A session aimed at promoting and strengthening democracy in Pakistan emphasised the need to update the Charter of Democracy (CoD) into CoD 2.0, to address current political and governance challenges.

The event brought together political workers from various national and regional political parties of the country mainly Pakistan Peoples’ Party, Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz, Pakistan Muslim League (Q), Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf, Mutahhida Quomi Movement (MQM) and others.

The event was organised by Pakistan Development Alliance to share the commitments of political parties in their respective manifestoes in the general election of February 8, 2024 to adhere

Syed Ishtiaq ul Hassan Gillani, chief executive of UGOOD, highlighted the enduring significance of the original Charter of Democracy introduced in 2006. He reflected on how the charter laid the groundwork for constitutional, social, and economic reforms, aiming to create a more inclusive and democratic framework for the nation. He recounted milestones achieved between 2006 and 2018, such as the establishment of the National Commission for Human Rights, the National Commission on the Status of Women, and the introduction of progressive laws promoting education and women’s rights.

Gillani emphasised that COD 2.0 has been designed to address the shifting dynamics of Pakistan’s political landscape. He noted that the revised charter reaffirms the need for dialogue and unity among political forces to overcome national challenges. Highlighting the role of civil society, he praised the continued efforts of organisations such as Pakistan Development Alliance and others in keeping the democratic spirit alive.

Speaking at the event, Zia ur Rehman, chief executive of Awaz CDS-Pakistan, provided further insights into COD 2.0 and its necessity. He explained that the original charter’s vision was built on 36 critical points encompassing political, economic, and social reforms.

Other significant achievements included the establishment of the NFC Award, the Islamabad High Court, and various commissions such as the National Commission on the Rights of Children.

Rehman emphasised that the political changes in recent years, including the emergence of new leadership in established parties as well as the rise of new political entities like PTI, created a pressing need for COD 2.0. They demanded intra-party democratic processes to further strengthen democracy in the country.