Pakistani-Origin UK National Celebrates Legacy of Elizabeth II

Ishtiaq Ahmed

London: Today started the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations throughout the UK and the Commonwealth, marking her 70 years of reign as the Monarch of the United Kingdom and the C.

Elizabeth-II became the monarch of Britain and the seven independent commonwealth countries, including Pakistan, at the age of 25 in 1952. She remains the longest–serving British monarch, and longest-serving female head of state.

As many as 14 prime ministers of Britain have served in her tenure and 170 individuals have served her realms as prime ministers throughout her reign.

She is the longest current monarch of one of the world’s most stable democracies. Yes, you have read it right.

Many would say that ‘hereditary monarchy ‘and the ‘democracy’ are incompatible, two opposing values and systems of governance. How could this be possible?  How could these two opposing values work in tandem?

Well! Britain is a living example of this being possible.

Of course, there are those that claim that ‘hereditary monarchy’ is an outdated system, a relic of the past, which has no place in this modern democratic world where the will of people is considered ‘supreme’.

They argue that the royal family represents a contrived set of values of privilege and status from the past of no relevance to the present. It is argued that the Royal family is an expensive luxury which the country coul ill afford and these resources could be better deployed elsewhere for the benefit of the public.

The supporters of the Queen and the royal family claim that the royal family lends continuity and stability holds the commonwealth together attracts tourism and helps to forge and sustain diplomatic and business links by generating goodwill by not playing to the political rivalries.

They maintain that the British monarchy under the reign of Queen Elizabeth II is an envy of the world, combining longevity of tenure and experience, having presided over an extended list of British and Commonwealth heads of the state thus amassing an encyclopedic knowledge and experience of state affairs.

Whatever the arguments for and against the desirability and the usefulness of the royals,   the Queen has ruled for longer than any other Monarch in British History, becoming a much loved and respected figure at home and around the globe. She has been an important figurehead for the UK and the Commonwealth during times of enormous social change.

The Queen is admired for her tenacity, hard work and her calm disposition has become a hallmark of her personality.

To date, the Queen is the patron of more than 600 charities and organizations across the UK and the Commonwealth. This shows her reach and involvement in the lives of ordinary people. Whatever political views on the monarchy, one cannot but remain impressed by her presence and achievements.

Britain has been better with her than it would have been without her. Congratulations and best wishes are in order on her Platinum Jubilee.