October 12, 1999 was a heinous conspiracy against progress and prosperity :Shahbaz Sharif

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that derailment of stable democratic system on October 12, 1999 was a heinous conspiracy against progress and prosperity of the country and Pakistani nation is still facing its consequences. However, he said, elected representatives are now engaged in public service while those who hatched conspiracy against democratic set up stand rejected.

In a message on October 12, Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid rich tributes to the political forces which stood against the long dictatorial rule especially head of PML-N Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, party leaders, office-bearers and workers and said that October 12, 1999 was a black day in the history of the country as on this day a dictator toppled the democratically elected government.

He said that military regimes have caused a loss to the country and had democratic system not be sabotaged there would not have been serious problems like terrorism, load-shedding, price-hike and unemployment. He said that it is also a fact that opportunist elements under the patronage of former dictator indulged in massive corruption and plunder. He said that PML-N leadership has the honour of playing an effective role for strengthening of democracy and democratic institutions in the country.

The Chief Minister said that solution to all problems of the country lies in continuity and stability of such a democratic system which is free from corruption, nepotism and loot. He said that had the development projects started in communication, health, education and other sectors during the last tenure of Nawaz Sharif not been stopped during the era of Pervaiz Musharraf, Pakistan would have joined the rank of developed countries.

The Chief Minister said that on this day, people of Pakistan pay tributes to those who bravely faced state oppression during Musharraf dictatorship and rendered sacrifices for democratic system. He said that today the nation should resolve that democratic principles will be upheld and all energies will be utilized for transforming Pakistan in accordance with the vision of Quaid and Iqbal.