President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday paid tribute to former premier Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on his 47th death anniversary, emphasising his lasting impact on Pakistan’s constitution and the need to uphold law, due process, and justice.

“Today we observe the 47th anniversary of the martyrdom of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, whose life was brought to an end unfairly on April 4, 1979. Zulfikar Bhutto occupies a central place in Pakistan’s political history,” said a statement from the president.

The statement added that “nearly half a century after his unlawful and unconstitutional execution, the Supreme Court, in its opinion delivered on March 6, 2024, held that Zulfikar Bhutto had been denied a free trial and due process. The Court observed that the legal proceedings destroyed any semblance of fair trial and revealed that an innocent man was ‘rushed to the gallows.’”

The president, in his statement, said that the day is a “reminder that justice and due process are not abstract principles”.

“As a nation, we must draw clear lessons from this chapter of our history.”

PM Shehbaz pays tribute to Bhutto’s leadership and legacy

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Bhutto’s “national and political services”.

“As prime minister, Bhutto worked sincerely for the country’s development, prosperity, and strong defense,” according to a statement released by the Prime Minister Office (PMO).

“He played a constructive role in preparing and approving the 1973 Constitution, which strengthened the parliamentary system and promoted democracy. Bhutto worked for people’s governance and addressing basic issues,” it added.

“He represented Pakistan globally as prime minister. We pray for his soul, and his services will always be remembered” said the statement.

Bilawal honours grandfather’s legacy

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also paid tribute to his late grandfather. In a post on X, he said, “On the 47th martyrdom anniversary of the leader of the masses, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, we pay him a red salute”.

“He was a visionary leader whose sacrifice became an eternal voice for democracy and the dignity of the people. His martyrdom was not the silencing of a voice but the awakening of a nation’s conscience,” he added.

“Today, we pledge to turn this dream into reality in the form of a strong, democratic, and welfare-oriented Pakistan,” he added.