Nation Renews Pledge to Quaid e Azam’s Vision on Pakistan’s Founder’s 149th Birth Anniversary

Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to Democracy, Justice, and Unity

Pakistan’s civil and military leadership on Thursday renewed their commitment to the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah as the country marked the 149th birth anniversary of its founding father on December 25.

In separate messages, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the occasion as a moment for national reflection, urging citizens to draw inspiration from Jinnah’s principles of democracy, justice, equality, and rule of law.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Quaid-e-Azam’s leadership was rooted in perseverance, constitutionalism, and social harmony, values that remain essential for Pakistan’s stability and progress today. He called Jinnah a visionary statesman whose determination changed history and secured an independent homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent.

“Faith, Unity, Discipline” Still Guide the Nation

Calling Jinnah’s message timeless, the prime minister said the ideals of faith, unity, and discipline continue to serve as the foundation of Pakistan’s national strength and identity. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to uphold these principles in pursuit of peace, security, and prosperity.

President Zardari echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Quaid-e-Azam’s leadership. He urged the youth to follow Jinnah’s ideals and play an active role in building an inclusive and forward-looking Pakistan.

The president also announced that 2026 will be observed as the “Year of Quaid-e-Azam” to mark Jinnah’s 150th birth anniversary, aimed at promoting his legacy among future generations.

Nationwide Tributes and Military Salute

The day was marked with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered across the country, and a change-of-guards ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi.

The country’s military leadership also paid tribute. In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the armed forces reaffirmed their commitment to Jinnah’s vision of a strong, sovereign, and democratic Pakistan, while pledging to safeguard national stability and territorial integrity.

Born on December 25, 1876, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah remains a towering figure in Pakistan’s history, remembered as a principled leader, skilled lawyer, and tireless advocate for justice and freedom.