Former Federal Information Minister Sherry Rehman at a media briefing in Islamabad. -AFP Photo

Islamabad Former Federal Information Minister and Central Information Secretary Pakistan Peoples Party, Ms. Sherry Rehman, has said that the government`s decision to restore the deposed judges has provided new space and opportunity for the strengthening of democracy in Pakistan.

`The restoration of the deposed judges by the democratically-elected government has provided a unique opportunity for the whole nation to move forward with a renewed spirit of reconciliation,` said Ms. Rehman while talking to a segment of international media here today.

`It`s a great day for the supremacy of democracy in Pakistan.`

Expressing her views on the Prime Minister`s announcement, Ms. Rehman said, `The Pakistan Peoples Party government has done well by responding to the people`s voice.`

`Our democratic government has once again proven that it is the true representative of the people`s will,` said the former Information Minister.

`The government`s decision reflects the Pakistan Peoples Party`s steadfast commitment to shape and implement a democratic and representative political agenda in the country.`

Ms. Rehman said that following the painful bitterness of politics of confrontation, the nation now needs `a healing touch.`

`There is a need to end politics of confrontation and polarization,` said the former Information Minister. `All democratic political forces of the country need to learn to accommodate and demonstrate flexibility on national issues.`

Ms. Rehman said that all national efforts must now focus on dealing with the major challenges confronting the country.

`We have a huge task ahead of us,` said Ms. Rehman. `With a renewed commitment to reconciliation, Pakistan must now focus on tackling extremism and poverty that are threatening the stability of the whole country.`

Responding to a question on her decision last week to quit her portfolio as the Federal Information Minister, Ms. Rehman said that her decision was taken on a point of principle that has always been cherished by the Pakistan Peoples Party, to which she  stands fully committed.

`I am very much a part of the Pakistan Peoples Party,` said Ms. Rehman.

`Regardless of my differences on administrative matters of governance, I continue to adhere to my party`s ideological position and manifesto for the people of Pakistan.`