PESHAWAR: The Awami National Party has appreciated the role of political parties in protecting the 1973 Constitution and said the approval of 18th Amendment had ensured provincial autonomy in the country.

In a statement issued here on Tuesday, ANP president Asfandyar Wali Khan said April 19 had significance in the country’s history as the 18th Amendment was approved on this day.

He said the provinces had got financial and administrative powers in accordance with the 1973 Constitution due to struggle of the political forces.

He said the credit went to political forces that restored the Constitution in its true sense.

He said some elements with vested interests were conspiring against the amendment but the political parties stood unified to protect the law.

Mr Asfandyar said implementation of the Constitution in practical sense would bring an end to the chances for martial laws in future.

He appreciated the political struggle of different parties for strengthening democratic institutions in the country.

The ANP chief said the provinces should be given their due right in the national resources to remove the prevailing unrest among the federating units. He also paid tributes to the people who lost lives during the struggle for restoration of the Constitution and strengthening democracy in the country.

Published in Dawn, April 20th, 2022