I Seek My Strength from Democracy, Says Zardari

After inking the 18th Constitutional Amendment Bill into law that will cut his powers, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has put up a brave front saying that democracy is his strength and that he is not ‘powerless’, said media reports.

“I believe in democracy and seek my strength from democracy as I think democratically,” Zardari was quoted as saying while talking media persons after the signing the bill.

“Despite enjoying all the powers, I never thought of using these powers as I am not fond of keeping powers,” he was quoted as saying.

In response to a query, he expressed confidence that ‘doors to dictatorship’ was shut, but hinted at possibility of another military rule in the country, reports said.

“I am fully confident that no dictator would dare step in now, but then, who can rule out mishaps,” The Daily Times quoted Zardari, as saying.

Stressing that he never misused his powers, Zardari said that he tool all decisions in consultation with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), said reports.

“I have never misused my authority in the capacity of the country’s head of state and would not do so in future,” he was quoted as saying.

Later, in an interaction with reporters, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said that the enactment of the 18th Amendment had increased the responsibilities of both the federal and provincial governments, reports said.

When asked about cutting the size of the cabinet, Gilani replied: “Everything will be done in accordance with the Constitution.”

(Based on internet reports)