ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader Benazir Bhutto’s birth anniversary was commemorated at the National Press Club in Islamabad on Saturday, where party leaders and workers pledged to continue her mission of championing the rights of the underprivileged and upholding democratic values.

The event was attended by Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, Adviser to the Prime Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira, PPP Central Punjab General Secretary Syed Hassan Murtaza, PPP Punjab Women’s Wing General Secretary Nargis Faiz Malik, PPP Attock President Ashar Hayat Khan, and a large number of party workers and supporters.

The ceremony was organised by Sadia Hayat Khan, who formally joined the PPP.

A birthday cake was also cut in Benazir Bhutto’s honour.

Speaking at the event, Governor Saleem Haider highlighted the PPP’s historical role in strengthening Pakistan’s defence capabilities. “Missile technology, which gave Pakistan a strategic edge over a country five times its size, was introduced during Benazir Bhutto’s tenure,” he said.

He credited Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s diplomatic efforts for helping Pakistan gain international recognition in recent times. “For the first time in history, the global community accepted Pakistan’s stance while rejecting the Indian narrative,” he added.

The governor also praised the role of the armed forces and Field Marshal Syed Asif Munir, saying they deserved congratulations for their contributions to national security.

“When Zulfikar Ali Bhutto initiated Pakistan’s nuclear programme, the country’s economic and political conditions were dire.

Yet, his leadership made Pakistan a nuclear power and safeguarded its borders,” he said.

Adviser to the Prime Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira said that while political leaders come and go, those who serve the people leave a lasting legacy. “The names of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto are etched in the hearts of the people. Their sacrifices for democracy and the common man will never be forgotten,” he said.

PPP Central Punjab General Secretary Syed Hassan Murtaza said the party had always played a leading role in defending democracy.

“Whenever the country faced crises, the PPP led it out of difficulties. Benazir Bhutto’s voice for the common man and for the oppressed across the world continues to inspire,” he stated.

PPP Women’s Wing Punjab General Secretary Nargis Faiz Malik said that the PPP has never compromised on its principles.

“The sacrifices made by our leadership are part of history. Uniting the four provinces has always been our strength,” she noted.

New party member Sadia Hayat Khan expressed pride in joining the PPP and pledged to work for strengthening the party’s women wing. Nasreen Azhar also spoke on the occasion.

A documentary highlighting Benazir Bhutto’s political and democratic legacy was screened during the event.

Published in Dawn, June 22nd, 2025