Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari paid a profound and glowing tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto-the first elected woman Prime Minister of the Islamic world and Pakistan’s twice-elected Prime Minister-on the 18th anniversary of her martyrdom, saying that the Daughter of the East’s life was a rare fusion of courage and compassion, and that her supreme sacrifice was a pledge written in blood that democracy in Pakistan would never surrender.
Chairman PPP said that December 27 is a day of collective mourning, reflection and renewed commitment. “Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was not just a leader; she was the fearless voice of democracy, the hope of the oppressed and an unyielding symbol of resistance against dictatorship, extremism and intolerance,” he said.
Highlighting her historic national and global role, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said her vision of a peaceful, democratic and inclusive Pakistan continues to inspire generations, especially women and youth. He said that as Prime Minister, despite immense challenges, she pursued people-centred policies, strengthened Pakistan’s defence, safeguarded national sovereignty and restored the country’s progressive and dignified image internationally.
Recalling her unmatched personal sacrifices, he said that despite losing her father, brothers and enduring years of persecution, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto remained steadfast and fearless until she embraced martyrdom in the struggle for democracy.
Reaffirming the PPP’s unwavering commitment to her mission, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the Party will continue to fight for social and economic justice, constitutional supremacy, women’s empowerment and the protection of minorities.
Separately, Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi, in his message on the martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto on Friday, said that December 27 is a tragic yet resolute day in Pakistan’s history.
Hd that Shaheed Benazir Bhutto was not only Pakistan’s first female Prime Minister but also the world’s first Muslim woman to hold the office, who made unparalleled sacrifices for democracy, the Constitution, supremacy of the people and women’s rights.
The Governor said that Shaheed Benazir Bhutto envisioned a Pakistan where every citizen enjoys equal rights, provinces are empowered, and terrorism, extremism and dictatorship are eliminated.
He added that the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are particularly aware of her sincere efforts to end deprivation in the province, establish peace and create opportunities for development.
Faisal Karim Kundi said that the Pakistan Peoples Party has always drawn strength from the sacrifices of its martyrs. Even after the martyrdom of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, under the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari, the party did not abandon the democratic struggle but carried forward her thoughts and ideology with renewed determination.