Today marks the 16th death of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, a day observed with solemnity and reverence throughout the nation.
Recognizing this significant occasion, Sindh has declared a public holiday.
The day commences with heartfelt prayers resonating nationwide, followed by various commemorative events such as vigils, seminars, and conferences, all aimed at highlighting Benazir Bhutto’s enduring struggle.
The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has meticulously organized the main event at Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, featuring a grand public meeting.
Preparations for the event include an elaborate stage for the top leadership of PPP, with the venue adorned with party flags and posters paying homage to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto. Speakers at the public meeting include Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, former President and co-chairman PPP Asif Ali Zardari, and other central leaders of the party.
Security measures are paramount for the occasion, with approximately 8,000 police personnel, including women officers, deployed to ensure law and order.
The security apparatus comprises the Bomb Disposal Squad, bomb detectors, scanning machines, jammers, watchtowers, walk-through gates, and police vehicles. Sindh Police officials will closely monitor these arrangements.
WHO WAS BENAZIR BHUTTO?
Born on June 21, 1953, in Karachi’s Pinto Hospital, Benazir Bhutto hailed from a prominent political family in Sindh. The daughter of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the founder of PPP, and granddaughter of Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto, she was the eldest of four siblings. Benazir, a beloved figure among the masses, pursued her studies at Oxford University, where she also emerged as a student leader.
Her political journey began in 1977 when she courageously opposed the arrest of her father during the dictatorship of General Zia.
After enduring exile in pursuit of democracy, Benazir returned in 1986, making history by winning the 1988 general elections and becoming the first Muslim woman prime minister.
The tragic turn of events occurred on December 27, 2007, when Benazir Bhutto addressed a massive public meeting in Liaquat Bagh, Rawalpindi.
The glow on her face mirrored her father’s fiery spirit during her impassioned speech. Tragically, as she acknowledged the chants of her supporters from her car sunroof on the way back, a terrorist attack unfolded, claiming her life.
The nation mourned as Babar Awan, amid the grieving crowd, announced her untimely demise at the hospital.
