Chairman Senate pays tribute to Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto

Chairman Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, paid glowing tribute to Pakistan’s iconic political leader, founder of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and former prime minister, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, on the occasion of his 47th death anniversary on Saturday.

He lauded Bhutto’s unparalleled contributions to strengthening the country’s democratic, social, and defense foundations.
In his special message, the Chairman Senate described Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as a visionary statesman, a transformative leader, and a true champion of the people.

He said Bhutto’s leadership played a historic role in institutionalizing democracy and empowering the masses, making them the true custodians of political authority in Pakistan.

Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani highlighted that under Bhutto’s leadership, the unanimously adopted Constitution of 1973 was formulated, which continues to serve as the cornerstone of Pakistan’s democratic system, federal cohesion and protection of fundamental rights.

He emphasized that Bhutto remained steadfast in his commitment to constitutional supremacy, democratic values, and public rights, while consistently advocating for farmers, labourers, and marginalized segments of society, including women.
The Chairman Senate further noted that Bhutto’s forward-looking vision and progressive policies steered Pakistan towards self-reliance, economic development, and social welfare. By bringing underprivileged communities into the national mainstream, he laid the foundation for advancements in industry, the economy, and education.

He also underscored Bhutto’s pivotal role in strengthening Pakistan’s defense, particularly through initiating the country’s nuclear programme, which proved to be a milestone for national security. Additionally, his dynamic foreign policy enhanced Pakistan’s global standing as a sovereign and dignified nation, while hosting the Islamic Summit Conference reinforced unity among the Muslim Ummah.

Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said Bhutto’s services are recognized not only nationally but also internationally. His struggle, sacrifices, and enduring commitment to public service remain a guiding light for the nation. He added that adherence to Bhutto’s ideals can help promote social justice, democratic stability, and national harmony in Pakistan.

Paying tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, he acknowledged her remarkable contributions to the promotion of democracy, women’s empowerment, and the protection of civil rights. He noted that her legacy as the first female prime minister of the Muslim world continues to inspire generations.

The Chairman Senate also appreciated President Asif Ali Zardari for strengthening democratic traditions and reinforcing the parliamentary system.

He particularly mentioned the 18th Constitutional Amendment as a landmark step toward ensuring provincial autonomy and the equitable distribution of powers. He further noted that Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, is actively carrying forward the party’s mission by promoting democratic values and public service as a dynamic young leader.

He reiterated that the Pakistan Peoples Party has rendered unparalleled sacrifices for democracy, constitutional supremacy, and the rights of the people—sacrifices that hold a distinguished place in the country’s political history. He reaffirmed the party’s resolve to continue its journey of public service, social justice, and democratic consolidation in line with the vision of its leadership.

The Chairman Senate emphasized the need to renew the national pledge by remembering the ideals, message of hope, and people-centric vision of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He urged the nation to continue striving for a strong, prosperous, and progressive Pakistan under the guiding principles of the Constitution and democracy..

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s Sacrifice Will Always Be Remembered: Khursheed Shah

Senior Leader of the Pakistan People’s t(PPP), Member National Assembly (MNA), Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah has said that the Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s supreme sacrifice is an unforgettable day for every patriot and democrat.

Senior Leader of the Pakistan People’s t(PPP), Member National Assembly (MNA), Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah has said that the Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s supreme sacrifice is an unforgettable day for every patriot and democrat. His struggle and sacrifice for democracy and democratic society is an unforgettable chapter in our history.
In his statement issued here on Saturday, stated that Bhutto sacrificed his life but didn’t compromise on principles.
While paying rich tribute to the late leader, Shah emphasized that Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s democratic, constitutional, military, and diplomatic services will always be remembered.
We pay tribute to our martyred leader for his great services, he added.

PM Shehbaz honors Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on death anniversary

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif released a statement on the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, paying tribute to his national, political, and constitutional services.

The Prime Minister said Bhutto made invaluable contributions as Prime Minister, focusing on national development, prosperity, and strengthening Pakistan’s defense.

He played a constructive role in drafting and approving the 1973 Constitution, which has been key in promoting parliamentary democracy in the country.

He added that Bhutto worked to ensure public-oriented governance and addressed citizens’ fundamental issues while representing Pakistan on the global stage.

The Prime Minister concluded by praying for Bhutto’s high status in the hereafter and emphasizing that his political services will always be remembered.

President, PM pay tribute to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on 47th death anniversary

The statement added that “nearly half a century after his unlawful and unconstitutional execution, the Supreme Court, in its opinion delivered on March 6, 2024, held that Zulfikar Bhutto had been denied a free trial and due process. The Court observed that the legal proceedings destroyed any semblance of fair trial and revealed that an innocent man was ‘rushed to the gallows.’”

The president, in his statement, said that the day is a “reminder that justice and due process are not abstract principles”.

“As a nation, we must draw clear lessons from this chapter of our history.”

PM Shehbaz pays tribute to Bhutto’s leadership and legacy

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Bhutto’s “national and political services”.

“As prime minister, Bhutto worked sincerely for the country’s development, prosperity, and strong defense,” according to a statement released by the Prime Minister Office (PMO).

“He played a constructive role in preparing and approving the 1973 Constitution, which strengthened the parliamentary system and promoted democracy. Bhutto worked for people’s governance and addressing basic issues,” it added.

“He represented Pakistan globally as prime minister. We pray for his soul, and his services will always be remembered” said the statement.

Bilawal honours grandfather’s legacy
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also paid tribute to his late grandfather. In a post on X, he said, “On the 47th martyrdom anniversary of the leader of the masses, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, we pay him a red salute”.

“He was a visionary leader whose sacrifice became an eternal voice for democracy and the dignity of the people. His martyrdom was not the silencing of a voice but the awakening of a nation’s conscience,” he added.

“Today, we pledge to turn this dream into reality in the form of a strong, democratic, and welfare-oriented Pakistan,” he added..

A Dark Day for Democracy and Human Rights

Secretary General PPP Parliamentarians, Nayyer Hussain Bukhari, paid tribute to the first elected Prime Minister, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, on his martyrdom anniversary. Bukhari stated that April 4th is a dark day for democracy, human rights, and the economy.

He said that those who removed Shaheed Bhutto from power committed a grave crime against the nation and democracy. Shaheed Bhutto’s judicial murder pushed the country back by centuries. Despite not getting a fair trial, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto remains a national hero in the eyes of the people and parliament.

Bukhari highlighted Shaheed Bhutto’s contributions, including giving the country a constitution and empowering the people. He said Shaheed Bhutto’s vision of democracy, equality, and justice was hated by enemies of the nation.

Bukhari stated that Shaheed Bhutto’s ideology continues to inspire millions. He said those who silenced Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s voice have been erased from history. Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto gave voice to the marginalized and ensured their rights.

The PPP leader reaffirmed the party’s commitment to democracy, constitution, and people’s rights under Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s leadership.

PPP Proposes Measures for Self-Reliance and Economic Stability

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has proposed concrete steps towards self-reliance and self-sufficiency. Secretary General PPP Parliamentarians, Nayyer Hussain Bukhari, stated that difficult decisions need to be made with the priority of building a strong and stable Pakistan.

Bukhari emphasized that governments cannot run on loans and aid, and practical steps must be taken to gradually free ourselves from international institutions. He stressed the need for national consensus on standing on our own feet.

The PPP leader proposed a 50% reduction in salaries and perks of constitutional, government, and state officials. He urged federal and provincial ministers and parliamentarians to voluntarily reduce their salaries and perks by 40%.

Bukhari also suggested significant cuts in government, state, and institutional expenditures to reduce the burden on the national treasury. He proposed shutting down central air conditioning and heating systems in government and private institutions to conserve energy.

The PPP leader advocated for bringing the housing, foreign currency, stock exchange, transport, industrial, and commercial sectors into the tax net. He suggested imposing government fees on private housing societies’ residential and commercial property transactions.

Bukhari emphasized eliminating all privileges of the elite to alleviate people’s hardships, citing that inflation has made basic necessities unaffordable. He criticized those who evade taxes despite benefiting from the country.

The PPP leader stressed prioritizing agriculture, the backbone of the economy, and providing maximum subsidies to farmers for fuel, machinery, fertilizers, and seeds.

Bukhari welcomed the national leadership’s meeting, stating that consultations on national issues at the federal and provincial levels reflect responsible thinking.

President Chairs Expanded Consultative Meeting on Economy, Energy, and Regional Situation

President Asif Ali Zardari has directed that amid oil and gas supply pressures, escalating energy costs, and the evolving regional environment, all possible measures should be taken to ease the burden of rising prices on the common man, especially for essential goods and services.

The President said this while chairing an expanded consultative meeting at Aiwan-e-Sadr in which Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and leadership of provinces as well as Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K) also participated.

Other participants included Deputy Prime Minister, Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar; Minister for Defence, Khawaja Muhammad Asif; Minister for Interior, Senator Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi; National Security Advisor, Lt. General Asim Malik; Chairman PPP, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari; Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb; Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar; Minister for Law, Azam Nazeer Tarar; Minister for Planning, Ahsan Iqbal; Minister for Petroleum, Ali Pervaiz Malik; Minister for Economic Affairs Division and Establishment, Senator Ahad Khan Cheema, Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif; Chief Minister Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah; Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Muhammad Sohail Afridi; Chief Minister Balochistan, Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti; Caretaker Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan, Justice (R) Yar Muhammad; Prime Minister AJ&K, Faisal Mumtaz Rathore; Minister for Climate Change, Dr. Musadiq Malik; Minister for IT, Shaza Fatima Khawaja; Minister for Power, Sardar Awais Ahmed Leghari; Advisor to PM, Dr. Syed Tauqir Shah; Advisor to the Prime Minister, Rana Sanaullah Khan; Special Assistant to PM, Mr. Tariq Bajwa; Senior Minister Punjab, Maryam Aurangzeb; Senator Saleem Mandviwala; Dr. Asim Hussain and senior officers of concerned Ministries and Divisions.

The meeting was briefed on the steps being taken by governments of the four provinces as well as of Gilgit Baltistan and AJ&K to manage price pressures, ensure availability of essential supplies and mitigate the impact on the public, enabling a coordinated national response.

The meeting also reviewed the broader regional situation and its potential effects on Pakistan’s security environment, economic outlook and food security. The meeting was assured that despite the global crisis, timely decisions have ensured no disruption to fuel supply, and that adequate fuel stocks are currently available to meet the country’s needs, with arrangements for the future also underway.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister informed the meeting about the government’s proactive diplomatic outreach, including his recent engagements with the leadership of Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, as well as leaders of countries involved in the conflict. He also briefed the meeting on his upcoming visit to Beijing.

The meeting was informed that proposals to increase oil prices had repeatedly been rejected by the Prime Minister, and that funds saved through austerity measures were being channelled towards public relief. It was noted that the spirit of austerity had begun with the government cutting down its own expenditure, including cuts to the development budget and the immediate grounding of 60 percent of official vehicles.

The President reiterated that the economically vulnerable people would not be left alone in this difficult time. He directed that coordinated decision-making should be done, with alignment between economic management, energy planning, food security measures and security preparedness.

The President also asked for the need for public awareness efforts, focusing on reducing fuel consumption, encouraging the use of public transportation and promoting shared mobility practices as part of a broader demand management approach.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Visits Zardari House, Karachi

Karachi, Thursday, 26 March 2026: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif visited Zardari House in Karachi, where he met Mrs. Faryal Talpur, Central President of the Pakistan Peoples Party Women Wing.

The Prime Minister congratulated Mrs. Faryal Talpur and MNA Mir Munawar Talpur on the marriage of their daughter. He also extended his felicitations to Ms. Ayesha Talpur and her husband, Mr. Muhammad Shabeeh, and conveyed his best wishes for their happy and prosperous life.

Mrs. Talpur expressed her gratitude to the Prime Minister for his kind visit and thoughtful wishes.

On the occasion, the Prime Minister was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Governor Sindh, Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah, and Federal Ministers Ahsan Iqbal, Azam Nazeer Tarar, and Atta Tarar.

Also present were Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, MNA Ejaz Hussain Jakhrani, Provincial Ministers Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar and Haji Ali Hassan Zardari, and MPA Sohail Anwar Siyal.

Pakistan’s Balanced Approach: Leadership Plays Key Role in Easing US-Iran Tensions

Nayyer Hussain Bukhari, Secretary General of Pakistan Peoples Party, has stated that Pakistan’s leadership has called a spade a spade, saying what’s wrong is wrong and what’s right is right.

In a statement, Bukhari said that Pakistan has adopted cautious diplomacy in the current situation. “Pakistan is an Islamic country, and the war’s effects are largely impacting Muslim nations,” he added.

Bukhari emphasized that Pakistan’s leadership has played a highly positive role in the US, Israel, and Iran conflict. “Iran’s stance is that it doesn’t have enmity with any Islamic country or people,” he said.

He urged the international community to play its part in preventing the war’s effects, stating that peace in the Gulf is crucial for humanity. “We hope Pakistan’s efforts yield positive results,” Bukhari said, adding that Pakistan doesn’t want the war to prolong as it’s not in anyone’s interest.

Bukhari called on China, Russia, and European countries to play their role, saying that the Board of Peace has become ineffective after the attack on Iran.