All stakeholders want democracy in Pakistan: PM

Friday, 27 January 2012 00:00

DAVOS: Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Thursday rejected any perception of clash between the state institutions and said all stakeholders in the country favoured democracy in the country.

Talking to reporters here after an interview with the BBC, Gilani said since several things were happening at the same time, it was being felt that there was some kind of clash.

He recalled his statement to a foreign media channel, that led some to believe that there were some differences between the army and the government. He, however, said all institutions were working within the ambit of the Constitution.

He said following his statement the person who was responsible was removed. "And since he has been removed I have nothing against them," Gilani said.

About his meeting with Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani and Director General ISI Lt. General Ahmed Shuja Pasha, prior to his departure for the World Economic Forum, Gilani said it focused on security matters related to Afghanistan and was also attended by Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar.

Prime Minister Gilani said the civil society, the intelligentsia, the media, the parliamentarians, they all want democracy in the country.

"Nobody is in favour of something other than democracy. Democracy is strong and will stay intact and no one has a desire to violate the Constitution."

To a question about Mansoor Ijaz's refusal to visit Pakistan, Gilani said he was summoned by the court, and he was not in a position to offer any comments on the matter as the issue was subjudice.

Prime Minister Gilani to a question about Imran Khan, said he did not participate in the general election and never succeeded in even bye-elections, and it seemed to be his party line that they would not contest the general election.

About the holding of general election after the Senate election, Gilani said it was the prerogative of the government and the era of 58-2b had gone. He said the government would hold the Senate election on time and it would be followed by the presentation of budget in May.

Gilani said Pakistan has got the support of all world leaders regarding the five-year partnership with the European Union and despite all odds Pakistan's economy was doing well.