The fifty-ninth death anniversary of Madar-e-Millat Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah is being observed today with great respect and reverence.
Fatima Jinnah was born in Karachi on July 31, 1893. She played a vital role in creation of Pakistan. Fatima Jinnah is referred as the Madar-e-Millat or Mother of the Nation for her role in the Freedom Movement.
Fatima Jinnah passed away at the age of 73 years on this day in 1967 and was laid to rest next to her brother at the Mazaar-e-Quaid in Karachi.
President Asif Ali Zardari has paid tribute to Fatima Jinnah saying her unwavering struggle in the creation of our beloved homeland, her steadfast companionship to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and her tireless efforts during Pakistan Movement remain permanently etched in our nation’s collective memory.
The President said Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah stood as an immovable pillar of strength during the most formative and testing times of our history. Defying the social barriers of her era, she passionately mobilised women across the subcontinent, transforming them into a potent force during the struggle for independence.
Asif Ali Zardari said following the independence, Fatima Jinnah was at the forefront of the monumental humanitarian efforts to rehabilitate millions of refugees. Her profound compassion, hands-on leadership and resilient spirit provided hope and dignity to countless families rebuilding their lives amidst unimaginable hardships.
He said Fatima Jinnah’s subsequent commitment to the rule of law, constitutionalism and her fearless voice against authoritarianism continue to inspire generations of Pakistanis. He said Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah’s enduring legacy serves as a timeless reminder that the ultimate strength of a nation lies in the moral courage of its people and in an unyielding adherence to the principles of justice, equality and freedom.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has also paid tribute to Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah describing her services to the Pakistan Movement and the nation as a proud chapter in the country’s history.
In a message, the Prime Minister said Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah stood shoulder to shoulder with Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah during the Pakistan Movement, demonstrating unwavering courage, dedication and commitment to the national cause.
He said she remains a source of inspiration for the younger generation, particularly women, and her leadership proved that women can play a vital role in advancing national objectives.
Shehbaz Sharif said alongside other women leaders, Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah provided courageous leadership during the Pakistan Movement and represented the women of the Subcontinent with distinction.
He said after the creation of Pakistan, she remained committed to the country’s social and political development, national harmony and the promotion of positive values. The Prime Minister prayed for the elevation of her ranks and said her services and legacy would always be remembered by the nation.
Meanwhile, paying tribute to Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani describes her as a symbol of courage, integrity and democratic values.
In his message, Yousuf Raza Gilani said Fatima Jinnah stood shoulder to shoulder with Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah during the Pakistan Movement and later played a pivotal role in promoting democracy, constitutional supremacy and the rights of the people.
The Acting President said her services for women’s empowerment, public welfare and national unity continue to inspire generations of Pakistanis. He urged the youth to follow her example of honesty, patriotism and dedication to democratic values.
Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani prayed for the elevation of the ranks of Madar-e-Millat Fatima Jinnah and said the nation would continue to draw inspiration from her enduring legacy.