President Zardari Reaffirms Commitment to Benazir Bhutto’s Democratic Vision

Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday reaffirmed his commitment to carrying forward the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto for a democratic, inclusive, tolerant, pluralist and forward-looking Pakistan.

In his message on the death anniversary of Shaheed-e-Jamhooriat, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the president said that the world in general and Pakistanis in particular remember a leader whose life and sacrifice are inseparable from Pakistan’s democratic journey. He said the nation honours her enduring struggle for democracy and constitutionalism.

Recalling her historic role, President Zardari said Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was the first woman Prime Minister of the Islamic world, twice elected by the people of Pakistan. In a political landscape marked by exclusion, patriarchy, prolonged authoritarian rule and repeated disruptions of democratic order, he said she stood firmly for the supremacy of the Constitution, the authority of Parliament and the people’s right to choose their representatives.

He noted that her repeated return to electoral politics reflected an unshakeable faith in peaceful political struggle and genuine democracy. “She gave voice to the voiceless,” the president said, adding that farmers, workers and low-income families remained at the centre of her politics. Through people-focused initiatives and a strong emphasis on opportunity, she sought to expand access to livelihoods, education, public services and upward social mobility, particularly for the youth.

The president said Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto firmly believed in an inclusive Pakistan, rejecting sectarianism, bigotry and intolerance, and consistently advocating for the protection of minorities. Her vision, he added, was of a federation where citizens of all faiths could live with dignity and enjoy equal rights.

Highlighting her forward-looking outlook, President Zardari said she also recognised the importance of engaging with the modern world. During the 1990s, she supported opening Pakistan’s economy, encouraging investment and promoting modern communications, laying early foundations for greater connectivity and broader economic participation in subsequent years.

He said her courage in the face of extremism remains one of her most enduring legacies. She stood against violence and intolerance and ultimately paid the highest price for her convictions. Her martyrdom, he added, serves as a reminder that the fight against terrorism is not only about security measures, but also about ideas, education and respect for diversity.

Addressing the youth, President Zardari said her life offers a powerful lesson in standing up for justice, organising peacefully and maintaining hope despite adversity. She confronted censorship and repression with resolve, demonstrating that truth cannot be silenced forever.

“As we reflect on this solemn day marking her 18th martyrdom anniversary, we must choose unity over division,” the president said, adding that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto never believed in vindictiveness or vendetta, and always maintained that democracy was the best revenge. He called on the nation to heal political divisions, strengthen democratic institutions and work collectively for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.