LAHORE (By Asim Shahzad): Speakers at a ceremony held in Garden Town to mark the birthday of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto said that democracy in Pakistan has been held hostage by powerful economic interests and urged renewed commitment to democratic values.
The event was presided over by PPP Central Information Secretary Nadeem Afzal Chan, while senior journalist and analyst Sohail Warraich attended as special guest. Senior party leaders including Dr Ayesha Shaukat, Barrister Aamir, and Jahan Ara Wattoo also addressed the gathering.
Speakers recalled Benazir Bhutto’s political struggle, her vision of social democracy, and her role in promoting the Charter of Democracy alongside political rivals. Party workers and participants paid tribute by sharing memories of the late leader, while a cake-cutting ceremony was also held.
Nadeem Afzal Chan said Benazir Bhutto believed that democracy could only be strengthened through democratic participation and unity. He said that despite conspiracies against the Charter of Democracy, political reconciliation was achieved through collective struggle. He also stressed the need for press freedom, judicial independence, and greater inclusion of women in politics.
He further remarked that political change cannot come through rigid “red lines” alone and that broader participation is necessary for democratic progress.
Sohail Warraich said he felt emotional attending the event, adding that Benazir Bhutto’s assassination marked a turning point in his engagement with Pakistani politics. He praised the PPP as a unique political force and recalled Benazir’s courage, leadership, and dedication to the poor.
Warraich also reflected on Pakistan’s political history, comparing the sacrifices of the Bhutto family to historical figures and recalling Benazir’s strong stance on civil-military dynamics.
Other speakers, including Barrister Aamir, Dr Ayesha Shaukat, and Jahan Ara Wattoo, paid tribute to Benazir Bhutto’s personality, leadership, and legacy, describing her as a symbol of resilience and democratic struggle.
The event concluded with a poetry tribute and participation from a large number of party workers and prominent figures from different walks of life.
