Democracy faces no threat, insists Gilani

Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Tuesday dispelled the impression that there was any threat to democracy. Talking to mediapersons after inaugurating Zero Point Interchange (ZPI), Park enclave and Lehtrar Road dualization projects here, he said democracy was stable, adding that the current system would continue unfazed.
Gilani said those who wanted to derail the political system, would face disappointment. Neither the government has any threat from corruption charges nor the opposition, he said while responding to a query. He said criticism was the main task of opposition while the government has to demonstrate tolerance. "We have to maintain political stability in the country," he added.
He said since the creation of Pakistan, the democratic governments were removed on corruption charges. He said the governments of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif were removed on corruption charges but no allegations were levelled on the dictators' regimes.
Talking about the AJK elections, he said that masses chose their representatives, adding there was no hurry to form the government as polls were yet to be held on special, women and technocrats seats. He said the government was in contact with Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), adding that it was the ally party of the incumbent government.
About the appointment of Chairman NAB, he said appointment would be made in accordance with law. To another question about CNG shortage, he said the concerned minister was making efforts to resolve the issue. Earlier, inaugurating the mega projects, the Prime Minister said projects were being inaugurated in such an environment where the political environment lacks consistency. He said political stability was vital for development of the country. He said the incumbent government held talks with all political parties and made them a part of coalition government. He added that the policy of reconciliation would continue in future.
He claimed record development has been made across the country during this tenure of the PPP government. He added that development process continued despite floods and war against terrorism. Moreover, he said Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has been made more transparent to alleviate poverty. He said the government was mulling over granting concession to poor in electricity and gas. He urged the CDA to launch housing scheme for the poor segment of society. He said rapid bus service would be launched to facilitate commuters of twin cities, Islamabad and Rawalpindi. He emphasised on launching Education City and other projects to create job opportunities for youth.