The nation is set to observe the 18th death anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto on Saturday (today), remembering her struggle and sacrifices for democracy and the country. The first woman prime minister of the entire Muslim World was assassinated in a terrorist attack during a public rally in Rawalpindi on December 27, 2007.
Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was elected as the Prime Minister of Pakistan twice. She stood like a rock for the supremacy of the Constitution, the authority of Parliament, and the people’s right. She gave voice to the voiceless. She pulled farmers, workers, and low-income families like a super magnet towards her, who remained at the centre of her politics. Through people-focused initiatives and a clear emphasis on opportunity, she sought to expand access to livelihoods, education, public services, and upward social mobility, particularly for young people.
She rejected sectarianism, bigotry and intolerance, and consistently spoke for the protection of minorities. Her vision was of a federation where citizens of all faiths could live with dignity and equal rights. Her courage in the face of extremism remains one of her most enduring legacies. She stood against violence and intolerance and paid the ultimate price for her convictions.