CHISHTIAN: Federal Information Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira on Monday said the survival of Pakistan hinged on the continuation of the democratic system which requires everyone to play a due role in strengthening democracy.

Addressing the oath-taking ceremony of newly-elected office-bearers of the Renala Khurd Press Council and members of Chishtian Bar Associations, he said the future caretaker setup will be decided by political forces only.

The information minister welcomed the return of Chief of Tahreek Minjhaj-ul-Quran Dr Tahirul Qadri from Canada and said the government would respect his standpoint in accordance with the constitution to help strengthen democracy and institutions.

“Allama Tahirul Qadri should seek the people's support through popular public vote within the ambit of the constitution ... no one can be allowed to oppose the constitution,” he said.

“We welcome all the parties who want to do politics in the country according to the constitution and desire to strengthen democracy and democratic institutions,” Kaira added.

However, he said the PPP would not allow anyone to derail the democratic system as it had been restored after numerous sacrifices.

The minister said some elements had been trying to create confusion as the nation was preparing for general elections.

Kaira said the PML-N has always maneuvered elections, adding that the N-League was afraid of the government's resolve to hold free and fair polls as it would hinder their interests.

On dual office of the president, Kaira said the PML-N leadership should understand that President Asif Ali Zardari's office of PPP Co-Chairman was honorary.

“The PML-N must elaborate whether it wants a democratic president or a conspirator in the Presidency,” he added.

He said unfortunately, the Presidency had been a root of conspiracies against democracy in the past but President Zardari strengthened democracy by relinquishing all powers to the prime minister including the atomic control.

Kaira also called upon the judiciary to avoid involvement in political decisions as it raises eyebrows on judiciary's role.

“We respect courts and their decisions,” he added.