Thu, September 17, 2026
Islamabad (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari renewed their pledge to uphold and advance the ideals of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, describing her vision as one rooted in democracy, inclusion, tolerance and a progressive outlook for Pakistan.
In their messages, Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto paid rich tribute to Shaheed-e-Jamhooriat Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.
President Zardari said that this day prompts people around the world, and Pakistanis in particular, to remember a leader whose personal journey and ultimate sacrifice remain deeply intertwined with the country’s democratic struggle.
He said Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto will always be honoured as a central figure in Pakistan’s political history, noting that her life stood as a symbol of resistance, courage and commitment to democratic values.
President Zardari recalled that she broke barriers by becoming the first woman prime minister in the Islamic world and earned the mandate of the people twice.
At a time when politics was dominated by exclusion, entrenched patriarchy, extended periods of authoritarian rule and repeated disruptions to democratic processes, she remained resolute in defending the supremacy of the Constitution, the central role of Parliament and the people’s right to choose their leaders.
The president observed that her repeated return to the electoral arena reflected an unshakeable belief in peaceful political struggle and the principles of true democracy.
He said she consistently stood with ordinary citizens, attracting farmers, labourers and underprivileged families through her empathy and people-centred politics.
“By prioritizing social uplift and opportunity, she sought to expand access to education, employment and essential public services, with a particular focus on empowering the younger generation and creating pathways for social mobility,” President Zardari said, adding that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto held an unwavering belief in an inclusive Pakistan.
She openly rejected sectarian hatred, intolerance and discrimination, and spoke firmly for the protection of minority communities.
Her vision, he said, was of a federation where citizens of all faiths could live with dignity, security and equal rights.
Asif Zardari He added that she also understood the need for Pakistan to engage confidently with the modern world.
“During the 1990s, she supported opening the economy, encouraging investment and promoting modern communication systems, steps that later helped strengthen connectivity and broaden economic participation,” he said.
Highlighting her courage, the president said her steadfast opposition to extremism remains one of her most powerful legacies. She challenged violence and intolerance despite grave risks and ultimately laid down her life for her convictions.
Her martyrdom, he said, serves as a reminder that defeating terrorism is not solely a security challenge, but also a battle of ideas, education and respect for diversity.
Turning to the youth, President Zardari said her life carries a clear message to speak out for justice, organize peacefully and never surrender hope in the face of hardship.
She confronted repression and censorship with resilience, proving that truth may be delayed but cannot be silenced.
As the nation marks her 18th martyrdom anniversary, he urged unity over division, recalling that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto rejected vindictiveness and always maintained that democracy was the best revenge.
Her legacy, he said, calls on all Pakistanis to bridge political divides, strengthen democratic institutions and work together for the nation’s progress.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari paid heartfelt homage to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, calling her life a rare blend of courage and compassion. He said her ultimate sacrifice was a pledge that democracy in Pakistan would never yield.
The PPP chairman described December 27 as a day of collective mourning and reflection, noting that Benazir Bhutto was not only a political leader but also a fearless advocate for democracy, a source of hope for the oppressed, and a staunch opponent of dictatorship and extremism.
Bilawal highlighted her historic contributions at the national and global levels, emphasizing that her vision of a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive Pakistan continues to inspire generations, particularly women and youth.
Despite facing immense challenges during her tenure as prime minister, she championed people-centered policies, reinforced national defence, safeguarded Pakistan’s sovereignty, and elevated the country’s image on the international stage.
Remembering her personal sacrifices, Bilawal said that even after losing her father and brothers and enduring years of persecution, she remained steadfast in her mission until her martyrdom.
He reaffirmed the PPP’s commitment to her ideals, pledging to continue pursuing social and economic justice, constitutional supremacy, women’s empowerment, and protection of minority rights.
First Lady and Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari visited Garhi Khuda Bakhsh to pay tribute to the martyrs of democracy.
She offered fateha at the mausoleum of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and prayed for her eternal peace.
Aseefa also visited the mausoleum of Shaheed Quaid-e-Awam Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, paying homage to his contributions to the country and democracy.
The First Lady also laid wreaths at the graves of Shaheed Mir Murtaza Bhutto and Shaheed Mir Shahnawaz Bhutto, remembering their sacrifices.
At the martyrs’ mausoleum, she prayed for public prosperity, national security, and the continued stability of Pakistan.
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