PPP hails Benazir Bhutto as symbol of democratic unity on 73rd birth anniversary

• Party leadership pays rich tribute to first woman prime minister of Muslim world

• Zardari says Benazir championed education, youth empowerment and women’s inclusion

• Sherry Rehman recalls her courage amid deadly threats and political turmoil

• Bilawal calls her “Chaaron Soboon Ki Zanjeer” and voice of the voiceless

 ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) on Sunday marked the 73rd birth anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, paying rich tribute to the first woman prime minister of the Muslim world and describing her as “Chaaron Soboon Ki Zanjeer”—the enduring symbol of a united, democratic and progressive Pakistan.

On the occasion, President Asif Ali Zardari said Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto inspired those who believe in democracy and championed issues such as education for children, opportunities for youth, reliable public services and greater participation of women in national life.

He said, “Today, on the 73rd birth anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the nation remembers a leader whose courage, political vision and commitment to democracy left a lasting mark on Pakistan’s history.”

“She remained closely engaged with the concerns of ordinary citizens. Whether speaking about employment, education, health services or the welfare of vulnerable communities, she believed that public office carried a responsibility to improve people’s lives. Her politics was rooted in the conviction that progress must reach those who had long remained on the margins of development,” he added.

PPP Vice President Senator Sherry Rehman also paid a heartfelt tribute to the life, struggle and legacy of Pakistan’s first female prime minister, twice elected and regarded globally as a symbol of democracy and women’s empowerment.

“On her 73rd birthday, we honour one of Pakistan’s finest leaders,” she said. “Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s courage, vision and sacrifices continue to inspire not only Pakistanis but millions around the world.”

Recalling the difficult and dangerous political environment in which she led, Senator Rehman said Benazir Bhutto faced immense risks but remained steadfast in her struggle. “We walked into one of the largest terrorist attacks Pakistan had ever seen. She knew the risks, yet she persisted because she was waiting for us—not for herself, but for Pakistan’s women, so they would not be left behind,” she said.

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also paid rich tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, calling her “Chaaron Soboon Ki Zanjeer” and the enduring symbol of a united, democratic and progressive Pakistan.

He said her vision of a strong federation, empowered federating units, constitutional rule, and a society based on dignity, equality and opportunity continues to guide the party’s political direction.

He added that her legacy remains a beacon for a Pakistan secure in its defence, steadfast in protecting citizens’ rights and committed to supporting the just struggle of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari further said Benazir Bhutto was not merely the first elected woman prime minister of the Islamic world, but also the voice of the voiceless, the strength of the oppressed and the hope of those denied access to power corridors.

He said that despite imprisonment, persecution and years of exile, she never wavered in her struggle against dictatorship and its allies, leading historic movements for the restoration of democracy and the supremacy of the 1973 Constitution.

“Her martyrdom silenced neither her message nor her mission. Her legacy lives on in every woman who dares to break barriers, every young person who dreams of a brighter tomorrow, and every citizen who stands for democracy, equality and human rights,” he added.