PESHAWAR: Pakistan Peoples Party senior leaders on Friday paid rich tribute to former prime minister and PPP founder chairman Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and vowed to fulfil his mission.

The tribute was paid during a gathering held here to mark the 46th death anniversary of ZA Bhutto.

In his address, former governor Masood Kausar expressed concern over the country’s current situation, citing deteriorating law and order in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

He criticised the government, stating that institutions, including the judiciary and the election commission, were not independent.

Kausar emphasised the need for genuine democracy and constitutional rule, saying another Bhutto-like leader was needed to restore the country’s integrity.

Observes 46th death anniversary of ZAB

He praised Bhutto’s legacy, highlighting his role in giving Pakistan its 1973 Constitution.

He termed the current government a minority government, dominated by a single family from Punjab.

He criticised the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government’s handling of terrorism.

He emphasised the PPP’s history of resistance politics and its commitment to empowering workers, farmers, minorities, women, and youth.

Mr Kausar expressed confidence in the PPP’s ability to steer the country out of its current challenges, citing its past successes in navigating difficult times.

Other speakers, including Syed Ayub Shah, Azam Afridi, and Tahir Abbas, also paid tribute to Bhutto’s legacy and reiterated the party’s commitment to its founding principles. The ceremony was attended by a large number of party workers, who pledged to continue Bhutto’s mission of empowering the people and promoting democracy.

In Chitral, the 46th death anniversary of the PPP founder was celebrated by party workers with a renewed pledge to make Chitral the stronghold of the party like 1970s.

A function was arranged at the party’s district secretariat on Shahi Qila Road, which was attended by party leaders and workers.

The speakers highlighted the services of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and recounted his special love for the people of Chitral, who visited this district more than six times when in power.

Later, addressing a news conference at the Chitral Press Club, PPP district president Eng Fazle Rabbi Jan said ZAB’s execution proved a death blow to the entire Muslim Ummah.

In Lower Dir, Peoples Students Federation organised a solemn ceremony to mark the 46th death anniversary of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

In Bajaur, a function was held to mark the 46th death anniversary of Zulfqar Ali Bhutto.

A number of party workers and supporters attended the function held in Khar.

Published in Dawn, April 5th, 2025