Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have paid rich tribute to former Prime Minister Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto by remembering her as the great daughter of Pakistan and a symbol of democratic struggle.
This was state by the President and Prime Minister in their message on her death anniversary observed on Saturday.
President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed the commitment to carrying forward Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto's vision of a democratic, inclusive, tolerant, pluralist and forward-looking Pakistan.
He said that today, we honour a leader whose life and sacrifice are inseparable from Pakistan's democratic journey. He said in a political landscape, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto stood like a rock for the supremacy of the Constitution, authority of the Parliament and the peoples' right to choose their representatives.
He said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto's vision was of a federation where citizens of all faiths could live with dignity and equal rights.
In his message, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said that her political legacy was marked by patriotism, courage, and an unwavering commitment to democratic values.
The Prime Minister said that Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto consistently promoted tolerance, harmony, and forbearance in the political process, which remains a guiding principle for strengthening democracy in the country.
Highlighting her contributions, the Prime Minister said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto took significant steps to empower women, protect the rights of minorities, and steer Pakistan towards becoming a peaceful, progressive, and democratic state.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government's resolve to continue the journey of tolerance, rule of law, democratic governance, and public welfare, for which Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto sacrificed her life.
Meanwhile PM Shehbaz Sharif in a statement issued on X said 'I join the nation in paying tribute to Pakistan's great daughter, whose life and leadership were defined by an unwavering commitment to democracy, the rights of the people, and the strength of our Federation. Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed stood for tolerance, political harmony, women's empowerment, and the protection of minorities. Her courage, sacrifices, and enduring legacy continue to guide and inspire the nation. May Allah grant her the highest place in His mercy. Ameen'.
Meanwhile, Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, in his special message on the 18th death anniversary of Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Benazir Bhutto Shaheed, said that Shaheed Bibi took historic steps for the continuity of democracy, independence of the judiciary, electoral reforms, and the political, social, and economic empowerment of women. Owing to these landmark contributions, she is counted among the great leaders of the modern world.
He said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto set a shining example for democracy, equality, and human rights not only in Pakistan but across the globe. Her principled leadership and steadfast political struggle will forever remain a guiding light for the people of Pakistan.
The Chairman Senate further stated that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto bravely confronted all forms of oppression and devoted her entire life to the welfare of the people. She was a strong advocate of women's rights, education, health, and economic development, and taught the younger generation that national unity, democratic values, and patriotism can help overcome every challenge. Her vision, courage, and political wisdom continue to convey a message of unity and stability for the nation. This is why she earned the opportunity to represent the entire country and played a pivotal role in binding Pakistan together as a strong federation.
Chairman Senate paid rich tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and said that the nation will never forget her great sacrifice. He prayed that Allah Almighty grant her the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous. He added that President Asif Ali Zardari also demonstrated prudent and wise leadership in carrying forward Shaheed Bibi's mission. Through historic measures such as the 18th Constitutional Amendment, provinces were empowered and authority was devolved to the grassroots level in accordance with the Constitution, thereby strengthening democracy and opening new avenues for the country's progress.
He further remarked that Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, like his mother and grandfather, possesses exceptional political acumen and a strong democratic vision. His prudent and effective diplomatic services as Foreign Minister are commendable, and the entire nation acknowledges his leadership. Similarly, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari is also prepared to play an active role in national politics by following in her mother's footsteps.
Chairman Senate concluded by saying that on this day the nation must reaffirm its resolve to translate the dream of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto into reality by utilizing all its capabilities and resources, and to continue her mission of building Pakistan into a developed, prosperous, and strong democratic state.