Begum Nusrat Bhutto remembered on 14th death anniversary 

Karachi (Web Desk): The 14th death anniversary of Begum Nusrat Bhutto, the esteemed political figure and wife of former premier Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, is being observed today (Thursday).

Born on March 23, 1928, in Iran, she served as Pakistan’s First Lady from 1971 until 1977 and was later elected to the National Assembly from Larkana in 1988 and 1993.

Following the execution of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto during General Ziaul Haq’s rule, Begum Nusrat Bhutto took charge of the PPP, leading it through one of the most difficult phases in its history.

She witnessed immense personal loss over the years, as she outlived all but one of her four children.

Her son Murtaza Bhutto was killed in 1996 near his Karachi residence during the tenure of his sister and former premier, the late Benazir Bhutto, while her youngest son, Shahnawaz Bhutto, was found dead in Nice, France, at the age of 26.

Despite enduring repeated political persecution and personal tragedies, Begum Nusrat Bhutto remained steadfast and courageous, never allowing adversity to break her spirit.

Nusrat Bhutto passed away after a long illness in Dubai on this day in 2011. She was buried beside her husband ZA Bhutto in Garhi Khuda Bukhsh, Sindh, a site that also serves as the final resting place of Benazir Bhutto.

In honour of Nusrat Bhutto’s lifelong struggle for democracy, resistance to dictatorship, and dedication to women’s empowerment, the Parliament of Pakistan posthumously conferred upon her the title of “Mother of Democracy.”

President Asif Ali Zardari, paying homage to Begum Nusrat Bhutto on Thursday, lauded her enduring courage and contributions to the nation’s democratic movement.

In his message, he said she stood firmly beside Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto during Pakistan’s struggle for democracy and later took the lead in the movement with determination and resolve.

The president noted that she endured immense hardships with fortitude and remained steadfast in her commitment to democratic ideals.

He prayed for her eternal peace, adding that her strength and perseverance continue to inspire the people to uphold democratic principles and strive for an inclusive and progressive society.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also paid heartfelt tribute to ‘Madar-e-Jamhooriat’ Begum Nusrat Bhutto, describing her as a timeless symbol of bravery, sacrifice, and dedication to democracy.

In a statement issued by the Bilawal House Media Cell, the PPP chief said Begum Nusrat Bhutto stood unflinching in the face of oppression and dictatorship, leading the democratic struggle with unmatched dignity and strength.

He said she was not only the devoted partner of Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and the mother of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto but also a guiding beacon for all who cherish freedom, justice, and equality.

Bilawal Bhutto emphasized that her sacrifices and resilience continue to inspire countless Pakistanis, particularly women, to remain steadfast in their principles and serve the nation with integrity and courage.

Reiterating his commitment to her vision, the PPP chief pledged to continue Madar-e-Jamhooriat’s mission of defending democracy, safeguarding people’s rights, and advancing a peaceful, progressive, and inclusive Pakistan.