RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Peoples Party leader and President of the Progressive Welfare Organisation, Muhammad Amir Siddiqui, has said that nations never forget their benefactors, describing Madar-i-Millat Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah as one of the shining personalities whose services continue to guide the nation.
In a statement issued in connection with the 132nd birth anniversary of Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, he said her struggle for the creation of Pakistan as well as for the stability of the country was unforgettable and a beacon for the nation.
Amir Siddiqui said that after Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the personality of Madar-i-Millat reflected the vision and character of the Father of the Nation. He said Fatima Jinnah supported the Founder of Pakistan at every step after the formation of the country and remained a source of encouragement for him throughout the struggle.
He said Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah stood shoulder to shoulder with Quaid-i-Azam during the Pakistan Movement and brought Muslim women of the subcontinent together on one platform, making the goal of Pakistan easier to achieve. She also struggled for the social and political rights of women, he added.
Quoting her message regarding the status of women, Siddiqui said she had reminded the nation of the honour granted by Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), which was a matter of pride for the entire nation.
He said the Quaid-i-Azam had, on several occasions, acknowledged her services for Pakistan in glowing words. Fatima Jinnah taught the nation the lesson of democracy and, despite her advanced age, confronted the Ayub dictatorship with courage, earning the title of “Shama-i-Jamhooriat,” he said.
Amir Siddiqui said her struggle shook the foundations of dictatorship and authoritarian rule. He added that the present circumstances demanded that the democratic system be allowed to flourish in the country, as economic stability was closely linked with democratic stability.
He urged the rulers to take practical steps to eliminate poverty, inflation and unemployment so that the democratic process could be strengthened. He said the purpose of observing the day was to renew the pledge to follow the life, services and sayings of Madar-i-Millat.
“Her democratic struggle will always be remembered, and the nation salutes her services,” he said, praying for the elevation of her ranks.
He also prayed that the rulers be enabled to resolve the difficulties of the people and overcome the challenges facing them. He called for relief from petroleum prices, expensive electricity and heavy bills after the use of 200 units so that the common man could breathe easier.
Siddiqui said the government must work on national projects to protect the future of the nation from water shortages and flood devastation, and to begin an era of progress and prosperity.
“Pakistan first, and Pakistan Zindabad forever,” he said.
