BENAZIR Bhutto, one of the most popular politicians in the history of Pakistan, served as the country’s prime minister twice. She was known and loved for her distinct qualities, bravery, compassion and versatility. Lovingly called BB, Benazir was a woman of character and strength who had the distinction of being the first Muslim woman to head a national government.

After completing her education from leading universities of the world, she had just returned to Pakistan when the government of her father, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was overthrown in a military coup. Her determination and courage during the troubled phase was exemplary as she stood like a rock in the face of innumerable hardships.

Benazir twice returned to the country from self exile — first in 1986 and then in 2007 — and was welcomed by millions of people in a political spectacle like no other.

The great daughter of a great leader continued the mission of her iconic father until her last breath when she was assassi-nated on Dec 27, 2007, in Rawalpindi just after a public rally. What a sad day it was.

Bashir Nichari

Quetta

Published in Dawn, December 27th, 2022