State and Citizens United Against Terrorism; Will Confront Militants Fearlessly: Sarfraz Bugti

Quetta — Chief Minister of Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti has said that the state and the people stand united against terrorism and chaos, vowing that militants will not be allowed to impose their ideology by force. “We will look terrorists in the eye and confront them,” he declared.

Speaking at the 58th Foundation Day ceremony of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Bugti said that Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto transformed Pakistan’s politics by bringing it out of drawing rooms and into the hands of the public. He added that Bhutto struggled for the poor, workers, and oppressed segments of society, and it was their support that shaped the PPP into a national and ideological party.

Bugti highlighted Bhutto’s historic decisions that strengthened Pakistan, saying these measures laid the foundation for the country’s status today as a strong nuclear power. He said that the recent effective response to Indian aggression by the Pakistan Army under fearless leadership was a continuation of Bhutto’s vision.

Recalling Benazir Bhutto’s contributions, he said she achieved milestones in missile technology and took a bold and clear stance against terrorism unmatched by any other political party. “PPP is the only party that has openly challenged terrorism and never stepped back despite sacrifices,” he said.

Bugti said Benazir Bhutto’s last speech reflected her deep connection with the people of Pakistan. After her assassination, he witnessed the country’s federation under threat, but former President Asif Ali Zardari’s slogan of *“Pakistan Khappay”* united the nation and proved PPP’s presence in all provinces.

He added that PPP continues to stand firmly against terrorism, vowing that militants will not be allowed to enforce their ideology through violence. “The system of the poor will prevail — Bhutto’s system, Benazir’s system will prevail,” he said, adding that Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has reaffirmed that the state and people will stand side by side against terrorism and disorder.

The chief minister also revealed that the historical house of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on Sariab Road, Quetta — previously occupied by a government department — has been vacated and restored. With approval from President Asif Ali Zardari, the house will now be handed over to the family of PPP martyr Khalil Ahmed Smalani, whose mother will reside there. He said this gesture honors the sacrifices of party martyrs and the loyalty of PPP workers.

Bugti said the provincial government took charge during extremely challenging circumstances, with the Red Zone closed and the public facing severe difficulties. He said bold decisions were taken to ensure citizens’ constitutional rights and access to state institutions.

“Our government is working day and night. We promise we will not disappoint you,” the chief minister said, pledging to lead Balochistan toward peace, development, and prosperity.

The ceremony concluded with the cutting of the PPP Foundation Day cake by the chief minister and party leaders.