ISLAMABAD: Constitution and democracy are vital for the existence of the country and any conspiracy to derail democracy will be resisted.

This was stated by speakers belonging to various walks of life at a ‘Democracy Camp’ set up outside National Press Club.

The camp has been organised by Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (Afzal Butt group), where the participants belonging to media, civil society, political parties and traders’ community expressed their resolve to protect democracy.

Social activist and artist Jamal Shah said democracy was vital for Pakistan.

“We should expose the designs of anti-state elements and enemies of the country who are out to derail the system,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion, social activist Farzana Bari said democracy was the future of the country and the citizens would defy any attempt to suspend the Constitution.

PFUJ-Afzal Butt group President Afzal Butt criticised Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT)and Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) for imposing their style of political system in the country.

Former PFUJ secretary-general Mazhar Abbas said media was the ultimate victim of every adventure against democracy and constitution.

Senator Rubina Khalid of PPP assured the gathering that the Senate would defy any attempt to derail democracy.

“Pakistan People’s Party has a history of sacrifices for democracy and it will stand again for democracy and supremacy of the Constitution,” she said.

Lawyers and traders also attended the gathering.

Some even said the government and political parties were united in resolving the grievances of PTI and PAT.

Civil society activists Naeem Mirza, Alyia Mirza, Ashraf Gujjar and Chaudhary Mohammad Riaz also spoke on the occasion.

Published in Dawn, August 21st, 2014