Karachi: The 149th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, is being observed across the country today with devotion, respect, and national enthusiasm. On this occasion, a public holiday has been declared throughout the country.
A dignified change of guards ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Quaid, where a smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul assumed guard duties. Major General Iftikhar Hassan Chaudhry, Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Military), attended the ceremony as the chief guest.
The Pakistan Army contingent presented a salute at the mausoleum, paying homage to the Founder of the Nation.
Throughout the day, various ceremonies, seminars, and commemorative events were organized at government and non-government levels across the country to honor the tireless services and historic leadership of Quaid-e-Azam in the creation of Pakistan.
Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was born on December 25, 1876, in Karachi. A renowned lawyer and statesman, he led the Muslims of the subcontinent with exceptional vision and determination, transforming the dream of an independent homeland into reality. His guiding principles of faith, unity, and discipline continue to inspire the nation.
Despite the presence of prominent leaders of the time, including Nehru, Patel, and Gandhi, Quaid-e-Azam successfully led the struggle for Pakistan, envisioning a state where all citizens would enjoy equal rights, freedom, and justice. His historic role in shaping the destiny of Muslims under the Two-Nation Theory remains unparalleled.
Tributes Paid:
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have paid homage to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on the occasion of his 149th birth anniversary.
In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari said that Quaid-e-Azam’s visionary leadership and guiding principles continue to inspire the nation in addressing present-day challenges. He emphasized that the Quaid’s ideals of democracy, justice, and equality remain fundamental to Pakistan’s national journey and should continue to guide its institutions and decision-making processes.
The President further noted that Quaid-e-Azam’s message of unity, faith, and discipline offers a clear path forward, describing these values as essential for progress, social harmony, and national self-confidence.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid glowing tribute to the Founder of Pakistan, stating that Quaid-e-Azam championed equality without discrimination, religious harmony, social tolerance, and justice. He remarked that the golden principles of faith, unity, and discipline are not only a guarantee of a brighter future for the nation but also a guiding light for generations to come.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Armed Forces, including the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir, also paid rich tributes to Quaid-e-Azam. In a statement, the armed forces reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to the Quaid’s vision of a strong, sovereign, democratic, and prosperous Pakistan, and reiterated their determination to continue contributing to national stability, peace, and development.
