Bhutto Family’s Role in Making Pakistan a Nuclear Power Highlighted at Benazir Bhutto’s 72nd Birthday Celebration: CM Balochistan

Quetta: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti paid rich tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto on the occasion of her 72nd birth anniversary, saying that the decision to make Pakistan a nuclear power was taken by Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, while the foundation of the missile program was laid under the leadership of Benazir Bhutto to make the country’s defense invincible.
Speaking at a grand ceremony in Quetta on Saturday to commemorate the birth anniversary of the former Prime Minister, CM Bugti described Benazir Bhutto as not only a leader of Pakistan but a prominent and dignified figure across Asia and the world. “Through her political wisdom, democratic struggle, and sacrifices, she earned a unique place in history,” he stated.
He emphasized that the sacrifices made by the Bhutto family for Pakistan are unforgettable and invaluable. The event, attended by party leaders, workers, and prominent personalities from various walks of life, also included the cutting of a birthday cake in Benazir Bhutto’s honor.
Highlighting the strategic milestones of Pakistan’s defense history, the Chief Minister said: “It was Benazir Bhutto who initiated Pakistan’s missile program, realizing that nuclear power without a delivery mechanism was incomplete. Today, the nation reaps the benefits of that vision.”
He also praised PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, calling him the only young leader in recent times who has courageously and effectively represented Pakistan’s stance on the international stage. “Today, the world acknowledges that Pakistan is a peace-loving country and the real aggression stems from India,” he added.
Mir Sarfraz Bugti reiterated that the Pakistan People’s Party remains the only true federal party, working for unity across all four provinces. Under Bilawal Bhutto’s leadership, PPP continues to work for progress in Balochistan, he said, citing developmental initiatives in health, education, transport, and welfare.
Among the key projects mentioned were the launch of the People’s Air Ambulance, the upcoming People’s Train Service from Sariab to Kuchlak, and the initiation of the Benazir Bhutto Scholarship Program, benefiting thousands of students across the province. He also mentioned ongoing reforms in education and healthcare, and swift rehabilitation in flood-affected areas.
He revealed that Bilawal Bhutto Zardari regularly inquires about the welfare of flood victims and the grassroots party workers. “Following his directives, we have expedited the NICVD project, soon to be inaugurated by Chairman Bilawal himself. Additionally, construction of 8,000 houses for flood-affected families is complete, and keys will soon be handed over to the deserving,” he said.
Sharing a personal anecdote, CM Bugti recalled being arrested and tortured during the 2008 elections when he and his brother were nominated as PPP candidates. “It was Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto who called me, addressed me as ‘son,’ and gave me strength. That moment remains the most precious memory of my life,” he shared emotionally.
Calling her a compassionate mother, visionary leader, and true voice of the people, he said, “Her martyrdom is a part of our faith. Though we may fall short of her expectations, we have kept her spirit and mission alive in our hearts.”
The Chief Minister concluded by reaffirming his commitment to public service and loyalty to the party, declaring that PPP’s mission, ideology, and legacy are the guiding force for their future.
The event was also addressed by Provincial Ministers Mir Muhammad Sadiq Umrani, MPA Haji Ali Madad Jatak, PPP central leader Syed Iqbal Shah, former Deputy Chairman Senate Mir Sabir Baloch, and PPP Quetta Division President Khair Muhammad Tareen Advocate.