Lahore: January 14, 2013. (PCP) The civil society has resolved that a peaceful transition through elections is the only way forward for Pakistan. Civil society has always resisted the undemocratic and unconstitutional forces and once again will do the same if any individual or any institution tries to derail democracy in the country. This resolution was passed in the Peoples Convention held by civil society organizations under the auspices of Centre for Human Rights Education to respond to the current political crises which has been created to disturb the peaceful transition on January 11, 2013 at the Auditorium of HRCP-Lahore The Peoples Convention was addressed by renowned human rights and political activists including Mr. I. A. Rehman (General Secretary and Director of HRCP), Justice (R) Nasira Javed Iqbal (Chairperson, Concerned Citizens of Pakistan), Ms. Neelam Hussain (Executive Director, Simorgh Women’s Resource Centre), Mr. Liaqat Ali- Advocate (President- Legal Awareness Watch), Mr. Salman Abid (Regional Director Strengthening Participatory Organization), and Mr. Samson Salamat (Director of CHRE). Mr. I A Rehman said that in the past the military establishment didn’t allow any democratic government to complete its term which hindered the democratic system to flourish and strengthen’ therefore it is a landmark and good sign for democracy that the current government is completing its constitutional term. Since we are passing through a very defining and important period in country’s history, therefore we should not be confused and should support democracy and democratic system and fully participate in the elections” Mr. Rehman added. Justice (R) Nasira Javed Iqbal said the people should not allow any person (s) or institution to sabotage the electoral process because democracy cannot flourish without a peaceful democratic process. We must show a “no” sign to the undemocratic forces who have always pushed Pakistan into darkness”. Mr. Farooq Tariq criticized the military establishment for its negative role in the politics of Pakistan and asked the people of Pakistan to be very watchful in choosing their representatives in the future. The people of Pakistan should be treated equally without any discrimination and the religion should be separated from politics and state affairs, he added. The other speakers also expressed their satisfaction on the completion of the current government’s constitutional tenure and unanimously resolved that the better future of Pakistan is only linked with the democratic system and its continuity. No institution or individual can sole rule and solve the problems of this country and if any person has some better agenda for the solution of the Pakistan’s problems, that person should adopt democratic process, participate in the elections and present the agenda before the public. The transition without elections is completely unacceptable. Following other recommendation were passed as a way forward for a better Pakistan: - People of Pakistan should reject if any undemocratic move comes across by any individual or any institution to derail democracy. - The Elections should be announced and held on time and there shouldn’t be any delay. - An impartial caretaker government should be constituted on time in consultation with the political forces and according to the requirements in the constitution. - All efforts should be made to ensure to ensure the transparency and credibility of the next elections and a peaceful transition of power.