Pakistan PPP to Mark 17th Anniversary of Benazir Bhutto's Assassination with Protest

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has announced plans to hold a protest on the 17th anniversary of Benazir Bhutto's assassination, renewing its commitment to accountability and democracy. The party intends to raise awareness about the lack of justice in the case, which has left many questions unanswered.

As the party approaches the anniversary of Benazir Bhutto's tragic death on December 27, 2007, it revisits the legacy of the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, who remains an iconic figure in the country's politics. Bhutto's entry into politics was not accidental; she was introduced to the field by her father, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, during his historic visit to Shimla, India in 1972. Her dynamic leadership led the party from the front, despite facing severe criticism and personal attacks. What set her apart was her vision of politics, which focused on building alliances, as evident from her formation of the Movement for Restoration of Democracy (MRD) in the early 80s.

Bhutto's unwavering commitment to reconciliation and democracy remains a lesson for today's politicians, including those in the ruling alliance and opposition. Her biggest test came when her brother, Mir Murtaza Bhutto, hijacked a PIA aircraft in 1981, but she condemned the hijacking and continued to build alliances against martial law. In 2006, she signed the historic 'Charter of Democracy (COD)' with her former opponent, Nawaz Sharif.

In the years leading up to her assassination, Bhutto continued to advocate against terrorism and extremism, despite facing numerous assassination attempts. Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has reviewed preparations for the 17th death anniversary of Benazir Bhutto, emphasizing the importance of water conservation and development. He highlighted the water shortage in Karachi and announced a new canal project to bring in 1,000 MGD of water from the Hub Dam. Shah also discussed employment opportunities and law and order in certain districts.

The anniversary of Benazir Bhutto's assassination will serve as a reminder to today's politicians of her commitment to democracy, accountability, and reconciliation. As the PPP holds protest against the lack of justice in the case, it reiterates its commitment to carrying forward Bhutto's legacy in the country's empowerment.