The 47th death anniversary of Pakistan Peoples Party founder and former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto is being observed today with respect and remembrance, with various ceremonies and prayer gatherings taking place across the country.
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was executed on April 4, 1979, in Rawalpindi following a murder case verdict. However, in March 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that his trial was not fair, sparking renewed debate across the country.
He was born on January 5, 1928, in Larkana and received higher education from the United States and the University of Oxford. In 1967, he founded the Pakistan Peoples Party, which later emerged as one of the country’s major political forces.
Bhutto served as President of Pakistan from 1971 to 1973 and later as Prime Minister until 1977. During his tenure, he introduced the 1973 Constitution, laid the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear program, and strengthened the country’s position on the global stage.
Following the imposition of martial law by General Zia-ul-Haq, he was removed from power and tried in court, eventually being sentenced to death and executed. Despite this, his political ideology continues to hold influence among the public.
President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message, stated that Bhutto led the country during difficult times and that the 1973 Constitution remains one of his most significant achievements.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, in his message on the occasion, paid tribute to Bhutto’s national, political, and constitutional services. He stated that Bhutto contributed sincerely to the country’s development, prosperity, and defense during his tenure as Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister further added that Bhutto played a constructive role in the drafting and approval of the 1973 Constitution, which remains central to strengthening parliamentary democracy in Pakistan.
He also said that Bhutto made valuable efforts for democratic governance and addressing public issues while effectively representing Pakistan on the global stage. The Prime Minister concluded by saying that Bhutto’s political contributions will always be remembered, and prayers are offered for his elevated status.
