Tributes to Shaheed Benazir Bhutto on Her 17th Death Anniversary: “Daughter of the East” Remains a Beacon of Democracy

Hub:In a heartfelt tribute to the first democratically elected female Prime Minister of the Islamic world and an iconic global leader, **Shaheed Benazir Bhutto**, the spokesperson for former President **Asif Ali Zardari** and Provincial Minister for Industry, Trade, and Agriculture, **Mir Ali Hassan Zehri**, praised the late leader’s historic legacy. He described Benazir Bhutto as not just a historical figure, but a **living movement** and a **beacon of hope**.

Speaking on the 17th anniversary of her martyrdom, Zehri affirmed that the day would be observed with **great respect and admiration** across the country, including **Hub district**, where special prayers for the soul of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto would be offered. He said that **party workers** from various parts of the country would visit Benazir Bhutto’s **tomb** to pay homage, lay wreaths, and offer **Fatiha** (prayers).

Zehri further mentioned that **grand rallies and gatherings** would be held to honor the memory of the **Shaheed (martyr)**, with speakers reflecting on her **life**, **struggles**, and **contributions** to Pakistan and the cause of democracy.

**Mir Ali Hassan Zehri** also highlighted the Bhutto family’s monumental role in the politics of Pakistan, emphasizing their long-standing sacrifices for democracy. He said, “The Bhutto family has a rich history of laying down their lives for the betterment and strengthening of democracy. Shaheed Benazir Bhutto struggled tirelessly for the restoration and progress of democracy in Pakistan.”

Zehri recalled that Shaheed Benazir Bhutto endured imprisonment during military rule but never compromised on her principles of democracy. He stated, “She proved that she was a woman of strong character, never compromising on the values of democracy despite facing numerous challenges.”

**Democracy and Women’s Empowerment**
The Provincial Minister also emphasized that **Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s** leadership was pivotal in shaping the democratic landscape of Pakistan, a legacy that continues today through the efforts of **Asif Ali Zardari**, **Bilawal Bhutto Zardari**, and the **PPP (Pakistan Peoples Party)**. He remarked, “The journey of democratic restoration initiated by Shaheed Benazir Bhutto is carried forward by the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and our dedicated workers.”

He also acknowledged the immense contributions of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto in empowering **Pakistani women**. As the **first female Prime Minister** of Pakistan, she introduced key reforms that empowered women politically and socially, including the establishment of a **Ministry for Women’s Development** and the **appointment of women in the judiciary**. “Her work aimed at leaving a lasting impact by placing women in positions of power,” said Zehri.

**Vision of Prosperity and Equality**
Mir Ali Hassan Zehri recalled that Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s leadership and vision were not limited to empowering women, but also focused on uplifting the **working class** and ensuring a **prosperous Pakistan**. He said, “Benazir Bhutto believed that if the farmers and laborers were prosperous, Pakistan would be prosperous.”

He further shared that **Benazir Bhutto’s mission** was not just about democracy, but also about addressing the fundamental issues of poverty, unemployment, and economic hardship. “Her dream was to eliminate poverty and create a prosperous, democratic, and just society,” he added.

Reflecting on the **tragic day of her assassination**, Zehri called **December 27** the **darkest day** in Pakistan’s history, marking the loss of a visionary leader. “The assassination of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto was not only the death of a leader, but the murder of Pakistan’s bright future,” he lamented.

**Commitment to Benazir Bhutto’s Dream**
Finally, Mir Ali Hassan Zehri reaffirmed the commitment of the **Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)** to realize Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s dream of a **flourishing, progressive, and equal society** in Pakistan. “PPP remains committed to fulfilling her dream of a prosperous and democratic Pakistan, where justice and equality prevail.”

Zehri concluded by saying that the **legacy of Benazir Bhutto**—her **patriotism**, **relentless struggle**, and **steadfast leadership**—will remain etched in the hearts and minds of the Pakistani people forever. “She will continue to be an inspiration for all women and men striving for justice, equality, and democracy,” he stated.

As Pakistan commemorates the **17th death anniversary** of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, her contributions to **democracy**, **women’s rights**, and the **fight for justice** continue to resonate across the nation, and her vision for a **prosperous and democratic Pakistan** remains the guiding principle for many.