THERE was no edition of Dawn on the day on account of the Quaid-i-Azam’s birth anniversary. Reproduced below are excerpts from the message issued by Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah on the occasion:

KARACHI: Mohtarama Miss Fatima Jinnah said yesterday that civil liberties elude people in Pakistan. In a message on the Quaid-i-Azam’s birth anniversary, she said that the first pre-requisite of the establishment of freedom is civil liberty — the freedom of conscience, of belief, of expression and of association.

That is why, she said, the Quaid-i-Azam had defined Pakistan as a State in which “we could live and breathe as free men”.

Pakistan has to go a long way towards the realisation of the State of Quaid’s dreams, she said.

Mohtarama Miss Jinnah said that the Quaid-i-Azam had visualised a State in which unadulterated democracy prevailed and the people’s will reigned supreme not only in theory, but also in practice.

“The only weapon you can forge to enforce your right to live in an atmosphere of real freedom is to create your own inherent strength which comes from unity of purpose and action, discipline in your ranks and above all an enlightened, sensitive and vigilant public opinion,” she said.

“Today, as the country celebrates the birth anniversary of the Quaid-i-Azam, I join you all in your rejoicing and remembrance. This day reminds us of that period of national pride, unity and achievement which was crowned in the creation of Pakistan.

“That you continue to remember him with the same fervour and love as you showed in his lifetime proves that in spite of all vicissitudes, your essential faith in the ideals and values he placed before you, remains unshaken.

“Let me assure you that so long as this faith is alive, no harm will really come to you or Pakistan. I must, however, caution you that … we are still far away from giving shape to the Pakistan of his dreams.”—Staff Correspondent