On the occasion of the 72nd birth anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto — the Daughter of the East and Martyr of Democracy — a dignified ceremony was organized by the Shaheed Bhutto Foundation at the Auditorium of the Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology (SZABIST). The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of workers and leaders of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). The ceremony concluded with the ceremonial cake cutting, and the attendees chanted passionate slogans in favor of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
During the event, rich tributes were paid to Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s invaluable contributions to democracy, human rights, education, healthcare, women empowerment, national defense, and public awareness.
Among the prominent attendees were Dr. Sardar Umar Aziz Khan, Deputy Secretary Finance PPP Azad Kashmir, former Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Barrister Masood Kausar, and Asif Khan, CEO of the Shaheed Bhutto Foundation. The speakers highlighted her visionary leadership, courageous struggle, and commitment to democratic values.
Barrister Masood Kausar described her as a devout Muslim, punctual and insightful leader who left a global impact with her leadership. He recalled personal memories of her religious devotion and political wisdom.
Asif Khan emphasized that human rights, tolerance, and democracy were core principles of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s ideology. Under her leadership, Pakistan saw remarkable progress in education, health, and empowerment of women. Her efforts in strengthening Pakistan’s missile technology — especially through the establishment of the Missile Technology Board in 1989 and further collaboration with China in 1995 — were acknowledged as milestones in the nation’s defense.
Jamshed Ali Taifoor, President of SZABIST PSF, noted her unwavering support for women’s rights and democratic values. Uzma Iqbal, PPP Islamabad leader, said, “Though she is no longer with us, her spirit continues to inspire our resolve.”
Asfa Murtaza, City President PPP Islamabad, stated, “Bhutto gave the people a voice; Benazir continued that mission and entrusted Bilawal with the future. God willing, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will be the future Prime Minister of Pakistan.” She also prayed for the good health and long life of President Asif Ali Zardari.
Zulqarnain Asghar, a senior PPP leader, remarked that Benazir Bhutto gifted the nation with advancements in both mobile and missile technologies and balanced the politics of reconciliation and resistance. He praised her for instilling discipline in the party.
Tayyab Mehmood Chattha, President of PPP Sports Wing Central Punjab, paid tribute to her vision and her deep connection with the party workers.
Azhar Khan, General Secretary PPP Islamabad, recalled the party’s foundational role in achieving nuclear and missile capabilities, noting that the leadership of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto made Pakistan a strong defense power despite difficult circumstances.
He said, “From Bhutto’s vow to develop nuclear technology, even if we had to eat grass, to Benazir’s delivery of missile technology — these are contributions that history will remember in golden words.” He added that Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is living up to this legacy by gaining international recognition for Pakistan’s stance and exposing Indian propaganda through successful diplomacy.
Speakers reaffirmed their commitment to continue Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s mission under the leadership of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and to strive for a progressive, democratic, and prosperous Pakistan in accordance with her vision.
