LAHORE – Speakers at a ceremony marking the birth anniversary of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto on Sunday paid rich tribute to her unwavering struggle for democracy, political reconciliation, and women’s empowerment. They described her as a leader whose courage, sacrifices, and commitment to democratic values continue to inspire generations of Pakistanis.
The event, organised by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in Garden Town, brought together senior party leaders, journalists, political workers, and civil society representatives to commemorate the legacy of the slain former prime minister. The ceremony was presided over by PPP Central Information Secretary Nadeem Afzal Chan, while senior journalist and columnist Suhail Warraich attended as the chief guest.
Charter of Democracy Highlighted
Addressing the ceremony, Nadeem Afzal Chan described Benazir Bhutto’s signing of the Charter of Democracy with her political rival as one of her greatest political achievements. He said she understood that the restoration and strengthening of democracy required political forces to unite despite their differences. Recalling her struggle against authoritarianism, Chan said Bhutto remained closely connected with party workers even during her exile in Dubai and continued to inspire democratic forces across the country.
He maintained that democracy could only flourish through an independent judiciary, a free press, and the empowerment of ordinary citizens. He expressed concern over restrictions on freedom of expression and argued that the real issues facing the people included poverty, inflation, water shortages, and unemployment. He warned that democratic institutions were increasingly coming under pressure from powerful financial interests and stressed the need to ensure that politics serves democratic values rather than economic elites.
Personal Memories Shared
Suhail Warraich shared personal memories of Benazir Bhutto and reflected on her remarkable political journey. He said she possessed extraordinary courage, leadership qualities, and a deep commitment to the underprivileged, adding that few leaders in Pakistan’s history had demonstrated a comparable willingness to sacrifice for democratic principles. Warraich recalled that Bhutto often compared herself to the folk heroine Marvi, whose life was marked by hardship and resistance. He said the Bhutto family had consistently demonstrated resilience and sacrifice in the face of adversity, citing the execution of former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as one of the defining moments in Pakistan’s political history.
Other Speakers
Barrister Aamir Hassan said Benazir Bhutto’s life was a story of continuous struggle, perseverance, and service to the people. He noted that she often drew inspiration from the resilience of Hazrat Zainab (RA) and remained steadfast despite personal and political challenges throughout her life. Dr Ayesha Shaukat described Benazir Bhutto as an iconic political leader and a role model for women. She said Bhutto successfully balanced her responsibilities as a mother, daughter, sister, and political leader while continuing her struggle for democratic governance and constitutional supremacy.
Jahan Ara Watto said Benazir Bhutto carried forward the political legacy of her family with exceptional courage and determination. She also presented a poem written in her memory and paid tribute to her enduring contributions to democracy and women’s political participation. Several party workers, including Begum Nasira Shaukat, Bushra Manzoor Manika, and Shahida Jabeen, shared personal recollections of Benazir Bhutto and highlighted her close relationship with party workers and grassroots activists.
The ceremony concluded with the cutting of a birthday cake in honor of Benazir Bhutto, as participants renewed their commitment to the democratic ideals and principles for which she dedicated her life.
