ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Friday pledged to restore the 1973 Constitution to its original form and said his government would complete its constitutional term before returning to the masses for accountability.

“We are trying to revive the 1973 Constitution to its original form distorted by some adventurists in the past. We are rectifying it and the nation will soon hear good news,” Gilani said in his address to the nation broadcast on the state radio.

The Prime Minister’s address to the nation is a new initiative that will be aired on first Friday of every month to keep the masses abreast with the government’s progress in every sphere of life.

The Prime Minister said it was his endeavour to apprise the people of the progress and the measures being taken by the government in resolving their problems.

“We have to continue our journey and make our motherland an Islamic, democratic and welfare state in real terms as visualized by national poet Allama Iqbal, Quaid-e-Azam, Quaid-e-Awam and Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed,” Gilani said and added the government considered its achievements not as its destination but milestones, accomplished with the support of people.

The Prime Minister said with sincere intent and satisfied conscience, the government took some tough decisions, but only in greater national interest.

He said the government welcomed positive criticism by opposition and media to improve its performance, however, he stressed that truth must not be distorted and while criticisizing and ethics must be followed.

“Insha Allah we will again appear before the nation, after completing our constitutional term, as it is the people who have the power to hold us accountable.”

He said the decision of masses is always reliable, sound and definite, adding that every such decision would be honoured with open heart and mind.

He, however, said there was a need for fulfilling the responsibility of being united and disciplined for the prosperity, development and sovereignty of Pakistan.

“Let’s keep alive the spirit of reconciliation, strengthen the democratic norms of mutual trust and respect and show the world that the people of Pakistan are capable of confronting and resolving all issues.”

“When we got the reins of the government the country was facing grave difficulties and worst terrorism. We along with our armed forces have crushed the militancy in the country and now working hard to bring prosperity and economic stability,” Gilani said in his first radio address to the nation.

“I hope that the militancy will soon completely be ended in the country. I salute our armed and security forces’ personnel for their role and sacrifices in fight against terrorism,” PM said.