News
Saturday, November 03, 2012
Judiciary has no powers to dissolve any govt: Gilani* Separatists would gain if constitutional limitations transgressed * Says he was punished for announcing separate province
LAHORE: Former premier and the ruling Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader Yousaf Raza Gilani has said that judiciary has no powers to dissolve any government and mandate given by the people to parliament should be respected in greater interest of the country.
He was replying to the queries of the journalists after addressing the ceremony ‘Guest of Honour’ organised by the Lahore Press Club on Friday. Earlier, he inaugurated the renovation work of Nisar Usmani Auditorium of the club. Evacuee Trust Property Board Pakistan Chairman Asif Hashmi, Lahore Press Club President Arshad Ansari and other office-bearers were also present on the stage with the former premier. Gilani was also awarded honorary membership of the press club on the occasion.
While addressing the journalists Gilani appreciated their efforts against dictatorial regimes and said that journalists always faced dictators courageously. He said that journalists’ struggle for restoration of democracy would be remembered ever in the history of Pakistan. The former premier said that he fulfilled his constitutional liabilities by not writing a letter to Swiss authorities and now his stance was being acknowledged that the president enjoys exemption from prosecution in the light of the constitution if a letter is written.
On the issue of Balochistan, he said that separatists would get power in the province if constitutional limitations were transgressed. Gilani said that if every department rendered its services while working within its jurisdiction and limitations, there would be no clash, contradiction and confrontation and democracy would also be preserved. He said that some “hidden” forces were not in favour of new province in south Punjab but all the institutions from Presidency to grass roots level were struggling sincerely in this regard. The PPP leader further stated that he and Makhdoom Shahabuddin were punished for raising voices and making announcement in favour of a separate province in Southern Punjab.
Commenting on the situation of Karachi as well as Balochistan and Sharif brothers’ statements and their policies, he said that they should avoid creating panic on the matter as it was sensitive. He said that the credit for restoring the 1973 constitution to its real shape goes to his democratic government. To a query, he said it was a responsibility of political leadership and law enforcement departments to control problems in Karachi. staff report/agenciesCourtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk