Islamabad: Central Secretary Information of Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians, Shazia Ata Marri, on Friday termed July 5, 1977, as a pivotal day, marking the overthrow of Pakistan’s constitutional and democratic government by then military ruler General Zia-ul-Haq. The event led to severe setbacks in the nation’s development and democratic framework.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, Shazia Ata Marri highlighted the long-lasting impacts of General Zia’s rule, including the introduction of extremism and division through religious manipulation, which embedded a culture of terrorism, and widespread illegal arms and drug trafficking. She condemned Zia’s actions as criminal, pointing out his violation of human rights and the constitution, as well as his brutal treatment of political opponents, including the imprisonment of prominent PPP leaders Nusrat Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto.

Marri praised the resilience and sacrifices of PPP leaders and supporters, also known as Jiyalas, who endured hardships like flogging and imprisonment during Zia’s regime to fight for democracy. She emphasized that the current democratic environment in Pakistan was a direct result of these sacrifices and reassured that the PPP would continue to uphold the principles of the 1973 constitution and promote a parliamentary system to ensure equality and protect democracy.