Karachi : The 18th death anniversary of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto is being observed today (Saturday), with the main commemorative event taking place at Garhi Khuda Bakhsh.
Preparations for the occasion have been completed: the shrines of the martyrs and the surrounding areas are decorated with vibrant banners and party flags, carpets have been laid out for visitors, and security measures, including walk-through gates, have been set up at the entrances.
Leaders of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), including Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari, and other senior leaders, are scheduled to address the main gathering.
Supporters have started arriving in large numbers, traveling in caravans from all over the country since Friday, eager to pay tribute to the late leader.
Benazir Bhutto was tragically assassinated on December 27, 2007, while leaving an election rally at Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi. After delivering an emotional speech, she stood through the sunroof of her bomb-proof vehicle to greet her supporters when gunfire and an explosion struck. She was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries. Many of her supporters also lost their lives in the attack, leaving a lasting scar on the nation’s political landscape.
Even years after her death, Benazir Bhutto is remembered as a symbol of courage and unwavering commitment to democracy. Her efforts and sacrifices have earned recognition both in Pakistan and around the world.
On this occasion, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari paid heartfelt tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, calling her life a rare blend of courage and compassion. He stated that her ultimate sacrifice was a pledge that democracy in Pakistan would never be compromised.
Bilawal described December 27 as a day of collective mourning and reflection, highlighting that Benazir Bhutto was not just a political leader but also a fearless advocate for democracy, a beacon of hope for the oppressed, and a staunch opponent of dictatorship and extremism.
He emphasized her historic contributions on both the national and international fronts, stressing that her vision for a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive Pakistan continues to inspire generations, especially women and youth.
Despite facing immense challenges during her tenure as Prime Minister, she championed people-centric policies, strengthened the nation’s defense, safeguarded Pakistan’s sovereignty, and elevated the country’s image globally.
Remembering her personal sacrifices, Bilawal mentioned that even after losing her father and brothers and enduring years of persecution, she remained resolute in her mission until her martyrdom.
He reaffirmed PPP’s commitment to her ideals, vowing to continue pursuing social and economic justice, constitutional supremacy, women’s empowerment, and the 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 (prayers) 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 national prosperity, security, and the continued stability of Pakistan.
