Today marks June 21, the day Pakistan’s history was forever changed by the birth of a truly extraordinary daughter – Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. A name that wasn’t just symbolic, but a reflection of her unique, trailblazing character.
The first woman to become Prime Minister of the Muslim world, Benazir Bhutto’s life was defined by unwavering commitment to democracy, human rights, and public service. She wasn’t just a political figure; she was a symbol of resistance, hope, and courage – not only for Pakistan, but for millions around the world.
A Light in the Darkness
After the judicial execution of her father, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, when the country was plunged into the darkness of military dictatorship, it was Benazir who kept the flame of democracy alive. She endured imprisonment, house arrests, and exile. But even in the face of brutal repression, she never allowed her convictions to waver.
Forced into exile during General Zia-ul-Haq’s regime, she continued her struggle from abroad. But her belief in peaceful political resistance never faded. Before leaving the country, she co-founded the Movement for the Restoration of Democracy (MRD), uniting even her political rivals in a joint front against tyranny – a testament to her commitment to democratic principles over personal politics.
Multiple attempts were made to break the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) – through splinter factions and co-opted leaders. Yet neither the party shattered, nor did Benazir’s resolve weaken.
A Return Like No Other
On April 10, 1986, Benazir Bhutto returned from exile to Lahore. Though dictatorship still reigned, the people’s hearts had turned. Millions flooded the streets from the airport to Minar-e-Pakistan, welcoming her with a passion unmatched in the country’s history. She was no longer just her father’s daughter – she had become a leader in her own right.
In 1987, she married Asif Ali Zardari, and the very next year led her party to an electoral victory, becoming Pakistan’s – and the Muslim world’s – first female Prime Minister. A beacon of hope was lit. Yet her government was dismissed after only 18 months – the first of many conspiracies she would face, some later substantiated, including in the Asghar Khan case.
But Benazir never backed down. She returned to the political battlefield and, in 1993, was once again elected Prime Minister. By 1996, she was ousted once more, victim to the same entrenched forces that resisted change and democracy.
Tragedy and Triumph
In exile again, she remained politically active. On October 18, 2007, she returned to Pakistan to a hero’s welcome in Karachi – only to be met with a devastating bomb attack in Karsaz, which claimed over 250 lives. And yet, she pressed on. On December 27, 2007, following a rally in Rawalpindi’s Liaquat Bagh, she was assassinated in an attack that silenced a voice, but not the vision.
Her enemies may have taken her life, but can a dream be killed? Can an idea be assassinated? Benazir Bhutto’s body may have left this world, but her vision lives on – in the hearts of all who cherish democracy, dignity, and justice.
A Legacy that Lives On
Benazir’s rise changed more than just history – it changed mindsets. She proved that leadership knows no gender, and that women are not confined to the walls of a home – they can lead nations.
Throughout her time in office, she launched numerous people-centric policies. But her dedication to women’s empowerment was especially profound:
She established the First Women Bank
Created women-only police stations
Set up Women’s Studies Centers in universities
Introduced a 5% quota for women in government jobs
Initiated the Lady Health Workers Program
Founded a Federal Ministry for Women Development
Beyond politics, she was a mother, a wife, a human being full of warmth and compassion. Even in exile, she raised her children with the values of sacrifice and service – teaching them that true leadership is built on principles, not power.
Remembering Benazir – Renewing Our Resolve
Benazir Bhutto’s birthday is more than a day of remembrance – it is a moment of reflection and reaffirmation. A time to honour her dream and recommit ourselves to democracy, justice, and equality.
Her life teaches us that change is possible – but only if we are willing to fight for it with integrity, purpose, and the willingness to sacrifice.
Today is not just a day for cutting cake
It is a day to renew the vow that we will stand for the Constitution, democracy, and the people’s right to rule.
Benazir Bhutto lives on – not just in books and speeches, but in every heart where even a flicker of freedom still burns.
The writer is the spokesperson of the government of Sindh