Former Prime Minister and Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Makhdoom Yousaf Raza Gilani, in a special message on the occasion of July 5, 1977, declared that this day will forever be remembered as a 'Dark Day' (Yaum-e-Siyah) in the nation's history. He stated that it marked the unlawful overthrow of the constitutional and democratic government of the country's first elected Prime Minister, Quaid-e-Awam Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
Unconstitutional Act and Its Consequences
In his statement, Gilani emphasized that the unconstitutional act of July 5 was not merely the end of a government, but a fatal blow to the Constitution, the federation, and democratic institutions of Pakistan. He highlighted that Zulfikar Ali Bhutto gave the nation the consensus 1973 Constitution, which serves as the ultimate guarantee for the country's survival and security. Suspending it, he said, pushed the nation into the darkness of dictatorship.
Tributes to Bhutto and Benazir
Gilani paid rich tributes to the monumental sacrifices made by Quaid-e-Awam Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto for democracy and public rights. He stated that the leadership and workers of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have historically endured floggings, imprisonments, and laid down their lives for the restoration and survival of democracy.
Reaffirming Democratic Resolve
The Chairman Senate further added: “On this day, we must reiterate our resolve that the supremacy of the Parliament, the sovereignty of the Constitution, and the sanctity of the people’s vote will never be compromised. Those who launched a midnight assault on democracy have faded into the oblivion of history, while the name and philosophy of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto live on in the hearts of millions.”
Path to National Stability
Gilani concluded by asserting that the sole path to national stability and progress lies in a strong parliament and uninterrupted democratic continuity. He reassured that the Senate of Pakistan will continue to play its pivotal role in strengthening the federation and upholding constitutional supremacy.
