PPP play responsible opposition role in Punjab Assembly, not destabilize provincial government: Zardari

Karachi, March 16, 2011 (PPI): President Asif Ali Zardari who is also Co-Chairman PPP says PPP will play responsible opposition role in Punjab Assembly and would not destabilize (PML-N) provincial government or undermine broad based national reconciliation policy which PPP adopted three years ago.

He said this Wednesday in telephonic address from Bilawal House Karachi to Punjab PPP MPAs in Governor House Lahore, according to his spokesperson Farhatullah Babar.

Zardari advised MPAs to perform duties as responsible, critical opposition but not be provoked into saying or doing anything against democracy. “We have long history of fighting against dictatorship. Democracy was restored in the country after huge sacrifices by the people. Hard earned democracy must not be allowed to be weakened,” he stressed.

He said it had been practice in past to divide political forces, parties and taking advantage from mutual bickering democracy was undermined by undemocratic elements. Political forces must be cautious against repetition of the past.

President said he was aware of difficulties faced by PPP Punjab MPAs of their development funds, projects after their exit from provincial government. In consultation with Prime Minister, he will set up committee of Party MPAs to suggest steps for continuation of their development projects with help of federal government.

He spoke of achievements of PPP government in past three years and referred to restoration of democratic Constitution, provincial rights and devolution of powers to provinces. Despite huge setback to economy due to fight against militancy and unprecedented floods last year, tax collection and foreign remittances had greatly increased. PPP government gave relief to salaried persons, pensioners, farmers and to poor through Benazir Income Support Program.