February 24, 2008	Sunday	Safar 16, 1429

LAHORE, Feb 23: The election results manifest national aspiration for a genuine democratic order based on the supremacy of parliament, rule of law and independence of judiciary and media, observe civil society representatives.

Gathering at a roundtable organised by the Pakistan Institute of National Affairs’ study group in Lahore, they spelled out the requirements of a successful coalition government in the light of historical experiences of different countries.

The study group, says a press release, appreciated “a display of vision and wisdom” by the emerging political leadership in response to the challenges in forming the coalition governments at the centre and in the provinces with a broad consensus and accommodation on national issues.

Justice K.M.A. Samdani (retired), in his presidential address, outlined the future course for the coalition government and underscored the need for good governance. According to him, the ingredients of good governance are: “A simple approach towards tax-payers’ money, setting priorities, rule of law and social justice.”

Dr Ejaz Butt, a professor of political science, traced out various aspects of coalition governments in Western Europe and India, saying political requirement demanded clarity of concept, a spirit of mutual respect, a well-defined dynamics of cooperation focused on the common agenda of the security and well-being of the people at large.

He said the coalition governments were considered weak and indecisive, but they proved quite strong and action-oriented because of wider support base and a natural system of checks and balances in a developed political culture. He was of the view that a coalition government of the PPP, the PML-N and the ANP would strengthen democratic institutions and motivate the democratic forces to reform the political system.

PINA Secretary-General Altaf Hasan Qureshee felicitated all concerned in providing assistance for holding transparent and secure elections against formidable obstacles. He asked the audience to interpret the election results in a scientific way for the formulation of future national agenda. He urged upon the winning political parties to exercise restraint and a great deal of patience in addressing complex and sensitive issues.

He was all praise for Asif Zardari, Nawaz Sharif and Asfand Yar Wali for showing a sense of responsibility in coming closer and entering into a coalition government for resolving the contradictions and confrontation created by the dictatorial regime. He was hopeful that a culture of accommodation would take roots in the people’s government and all sections of society would extend their support in establishing the rule of law.

Chaudhry Sultan Ali, a seasoned politician, impressed upon the nation the need to make its own decisions without taking dictation from the USA or other major powers. The electorate demonstrated their anger against autocratic rule and foreign interference in our national affairs.

He said the people of Pakistan had a great desire to rebuild their destiny in accordance with the Islamic principles of social, economic and political equality, and fair play.

Shamshad Ahmad Khan, a former foreign secretary, interpreted the election results in terms of the grand victory of the people of Pakistan. He said the civil society and legal community played heroic role in pressuring the rulers to hold transparent and peaceful election. He was of the opinion that there was a great need to keep the elected leadership on right track by focusing on issues of paramount importance.

Qayyum Nizami said the political forces must concentrate on translating the gains of the people into a visible social, economic and political change and transformation of the mindset.

The PINA study group resolved that the US and the West should recognise and respect the verdict of the people and President Musharraf find a graceful exit.