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ISLAMABAD, Jan 04 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari has paid rich tribute to Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on his 98th birth anniversary, recalling his pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s political destiny and reaffirming the nation’s resolve to carry forward his vision of a just, democratic and progressive Pakistan.
In his message issued on the occasion, the President described Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as a towering statesman and a defining figure in Pakistan’s political history whose life and leadership continued to inspire generations. He said that Bhutto founded the Pakistan People’s Party with a clear vision of justice, equality and empowerment for all citizens.
President Zardari said that under Bhutto’s leadership, Pakistan adopted its first unanimously approved Constitution in 1973, which laid the foundation of the country’s parliamentary democracy and federal system. He noted that the Constitution was a historic achievement, built through unprecedented consensus in the shortest possible time by the first constituent assembly elected on the principle of one person, one vote.
The President said Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto championed the rights of the marginalised and gave voice to the voiceless. His reforms in land rights, labour protection, and the expansion of education and public services, he added, were aimed at ensuring dignity and opportunity for farmers, workers, women and the underprivileged segments of society.
Highlighting Bhutto’s contribution to national security and foreign policy, President Zardari said that he was the main architect of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, laying the foundation for a credible sovereign deterrent. He added that Bhutto strengthened Pakistan’s independent foreign policy, deepened relations with friendly countries, and hosted the historic 1974 Islamic Summit Conference, which enhanced cooperation across the Muslim world.
The President said that Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s courage in the face of adversity and his unwavering commitment to democratic ideals remained a guiding light for the nation. He stressed that the consensus-building capacity demonstrated by Bhutto was needed more than ever in the present times.
President Zardari said that Bhutto’s life reminded the nation that true progress was rooted in resolve, inclusivity and selfless service to the people. He urged the nation to honour Bhutto’s memory by reaffirming commitment to his ideals of democracy, justice and unity.
The President said that Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s legacy would continue to guide Pakistan’s collective efforts for peace, prosperity and national cohesion, adding, “Pakistan Zindabad.”