I Declare!

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare my full support to a Democratic system in Pakistan. A Democratic system, implemented in its letter and spirit, is the only way forward for a progressive Pakistan. Our country has suffered a lot during dictatorial regimes. Questions about quality of democracy can always be posed, but then answer to it lies only in supporting and evolving this system over a period of time. Democracy is always a work-in-process.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that no one is above law, including those in government. A government is elected by the vote of the people and answerable to law and people.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that sanctity of my vote should be protected by the state. I struggled and took time to cast my vote for the people whom I think are right for the job. It is the responsibility of the state to protect and preserve the sanctity of this right. If there are any doubts or question marks on validity of votes, it is the responsibility of the state to inquire and investigate it in a free and fair manner.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare to remain civil and obedient to my state. Government and State are two different entities and I believe fulfilling my duties to state will strengthen my country. I believe in civilised and constitutional struggle for my rights as was done by Founder of my country, Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that terrorism is the biggest threat to existence of our country. I extend my full support to Pakistan Army and Zarb e Azb operation to get rid of the menace of Talibans and terrorism plaguing my country. I want my country to prosper by leaps and bounds and stand right with the most progressed nations of the world.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that all citizens of my country have equal rights irrespective of one’s cast, creed, sect or religion. I condemn persecution and killing of religious and sectarian minorities. I believe in liberal and tolerant Pakistan as envisaged by its Founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that every citizen of my country is innocent until proven guilty and not the other way around. I believe that I neither have right of judging other nor hurling accusations without proof.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that verbal cross fires lacking facts and constructive arguments leaves no difference between a literate and an illiterate person. A degree does not necessarily mean education. Even an illiterate man is educated who makes sane decision. Having ‘high emotional quotient’ is real education. I respect the opinion of every other citizen and do not judge or abuse them if it differs from mine. Tolerance is the mainstay of any progressive democratic society.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that protest is my constitutional and moral right. I should not be disallowed from protest against something which I perceive as wrong. Constitution of my country ensures freedom of expression. However, I also declare that my ego will never come in way of my protesting rights. My country does not have to suffer in clash of egos.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that citizens of my country should get rid of hypocrisy prevailing in all walks of our life. Examples should be set by changing oneself not forcing others. Citizens of this country should get rid of intellectual, financial and moral dishonesty in their personal lives.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that no taxation without representation. Elected parliamentarians are servants of the citizens, not masters. Democratic process is about equal rights for all, not monarchy.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that our state should focus on nation building. Political and religious rhetoric and populism should be discouraged.

I, Fazal Abbas, a citizen of Pakistan hereby declare that I love my country and think same about my fellow citizens. I do not have any right to question patriotism of any of my fellow citizens.

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This blog was published on Pak Tea House.