News

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed deep sorrow over the bus accident in the Diamer district of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed grief over the loss of precious lives in the accident on the Karakoram Highway. He extended heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in the incident.

Efforts should be made to ensure proper treatment and speedy recovery of the injured, Chairman PPP stated. Relevant authorities and the public should work together to prevent such incidents in the future, he said. 

Chairman Bilawal also prayed for a speedy recovery of all those injured.

—

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has strongly condemned the terrorist bomb blast in Khuzdar.

Chairman Bilawal expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of Press Club President, Muhammad Sadique Mengal in the blast. He extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the journalist fraternity.

Such cowardly acts will not dampen the spirits of the Pakistani nation, Chairman Bilawal stated. He further said that the despicable elements involved in this heinous crime will receive nothing but humiliation. 

Chairman Bilawal also prayed for a speedy recovery of all those injured.

—

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has extended sincere solidarity to journalists and media professionals worldwide on the World Press Freedom Day. Emphasizing the paramount importance of press freedom, he reaffirmed his party’s staunch support for the invaluable role of a free and independent press in fostering democracy.

According to a press release by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, in his message, underscored that press freedom is not merely a cornerstone of democracy, but also vital for nurturing transparency, accountability, and the proliferation of diverse ideas within society. He urged that safeguarding and upholding this fundamental right should be the responsibility of every democratic government and party. 

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that historically, the press in Pakistan has served as a watchdog, uncovering injustices, exposing corruption, and amplifying the voices of the marginalized. Expressing concern over challenges such as censorship, fake news, and violence faced by journalists, he urged media organizations to uphold journalistic integrity, impartiality, and professionalism in their reporting.

Chairman PPP reiterated the party’s unwavering support for press freedom, grounded in democracy and liberty principles. He underscored the 1973 Constitution’s guarantee of freedom of expression, including press freedom, a legacy of Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. “Under his leadership, reforms liberalized media policies, fostering greater independence,” he noted. He highlighted Prime Minister Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s efforts to promote press freedom, including abolishing censorship laws and supporting independent media growth, adding that she also championed press freedom and human rights globally, underscoring their significance in democratic governance and seeking international support during dictatorial regimes.

Chairman PPP noted that President Asif Ali Zardari honored the vision and guiding principles of Shaheed Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto by enshrining the “Right to Know” into the Constitution through the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed PPP’s solidarity with journalists in conflict zones like Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and Gaza, Palestine, praising their courage in reporting on human rights abuses despite grave risks.

“Let us carry forward the torch of press freedom, illuminating pathways of accountability and fostering dialogue. Through our unwavering support, let’s empower journalists to fearlessly navigate the realms of truth, shaping a brighter future for all,” he concluded.

—

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has advocated for a pragmatic approach towards managing key institutions such as Pakistan Airlines and Pakistan Steel Mills. He emphasized the importance of exploring public-private partnerships as an alternative to outright privatization. Additionally, he called upon the federal government to address the pressing issue of inflation by proposing salary increases for employees in the forthcoming budget.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, while addressing a function organized by the People’s Labor Bureau (PLB) at the Karachi Arts Council on the occasion of International Labour Day, said that economies, businesses, and institutions worldwide, including Pakistan, thrive due to the dedication of workers. He reiterated the PPP’s philosophy: ensuring that workers receive their rightful dues.

He pointed out that Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto not only granted workers the right to form unions but also established vital institutions like the Employees Old Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) for their welfare. 

Additionally, he emphasized that when Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto assumed office as Prime Minister, her inaugural act was to release workers’ representatives who had been unjustly imprisoned during the dictatorship. “Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto carried forward the noble struggle of the workers,” he noted.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that during the first tenure of President Asif Ali Zardari, significant strides were made in favor of labor rights. 

He noted the removal of anti-labor clauses from the constitution, originally introduced during the regimes of General Zia-ul-Haq and General Pervez Musharraf. Additionally, Chairman Bilawal highlighted substantial increases in salaries and pensions, asserting, “I believe that no government in Pakistan’s history has elevated salaries and pensions to such an extent, barring the tenure of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.” Furthermore, he underscored the legislative achievements of the Sindh Assembly, stating that no other province rivals its commitment to enacting laws for the rights and welfare of workers.

Chairman PPP highlighted that the Sindh government, under the PPP, has launched the Benazir Mazdoor Card initiative. However, he noted that its full implementation hinges upon the federal government’s transfer of ministries and institutions, as stipulated by the 18th Amendment. He advocated for the devolution of institutions like EOBI to the provinces. 

Expressing optimism, he stated his hope that PPP-led governments in Sindh and Balochistan would prioritize salary increases in the forthcoming budget.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reiterated the PPP’s longstanding stance on the privatization of institutions like PIA, emphasizing the preference for operating them under the public-private partnership (PPP) mode instead. He cited successful PPP-mode projects in Sindh as examples of effective collaboration between the public and private sectors. Chairman advocated for a similar approach for institutions under consideration for privatization, suggesting that the government sell some shares and engage with the private sector to foster their development, thereby benefiting Pakistan and its economy.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto highlighted the success of the Thar Coal Project completed by the People’s Government of Sindh through a public-private partnership, contrasting it with previous failures under both provincial and federal administrations. He noted the current finance minister’s favorable view of Sindh’s PPP model and expressed the intent to persuade the government to transition from privatization to PPP-mode.

Talking about the Pakistan Steel Mills, Chairman Bhutto said that the land belongs to the Sindh government and decisions regarding the institution should involve Sindh’s consent. He emphasized for collaborative discussions between the federal and provincial governments, proposing that if the federal government intends to divest from the Steel Mills, Sindh should have the opportunity to acquire and operate it more efficiently under PPP-mode, ensuring the welfare of its workers.

Chairman Bilawal also stressed the need for increased activity within the People’s Labor Bureau, a subsidiary organization of the PPP. 

He announced former Senate Chairman Mian Raza Rabbani’s appointment to mobilize People’s Labor Bureau nationwide.

—

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, reaffirmed the founding vision of the Party – Roti, Kapra Aur Makaan, on the International Labour Day, with a conviction that the prosperity of Pakistan is interwoven with the welfare and dignity of its labor force.

According to the press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, in a message on International Labour Day, paid homage to the martyrs of Chicago. He also paid glowing tribute to Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for the latter’s pioneering efforts in enshrining labor rights through the first-ever Labour Policy in 1972, laying the groundwork for equitable representation and empowerment. 

He highlighted that as Prime Minister, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto restored the trade union rights unjustly seized by a dictator from the workers. “Shaheed Bibi tirelessly endeavored to expand job opportunities for the underprivileged, fostering employment growth even during her brief tenures in government,” he pointed out. Reflecting on President Asif Ali Zardari’s previous tenure, he proudly recalled the launch of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) and Benazir Employees Stock Option Scheme (BESOS), a testament to the party’s unwavering commitment to fostering economic prosperity and opportunity for all.

Among the progress made by the PPP, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari praised his party’s governments in Sindh for leading initiatives like the Labour Policy, Benazir Mazdoor Card scheme, and building flats for laborers. “The PPP continues its commitment to helping the working class with programs like the ‘Benazir Mazdoor Card’ and ‘Benazir Kisan Card’ in Sindh and Balochistan, showing its dedication to empowerment,” he affirmed.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari recognized the ongoing challenges faced by the labor class in Pakistan, often ignored by other political groups. He invited the hardworking people to join the PPP, a stronghold of hope and determination, committed to supporting their cause and protecting their rights. 

Looking ahead, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari vowed to introduce the significant legislative reforms, reinforcing PPP’s commitment as a strong supporter and protector of the labor class. He promised to oppose exploitation and to remain a source of hope and unity for hardworking individuals, who are the foundation of both the Party and society.

—

President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the award of Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) upon General Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, Commander of Turkish Land Forces, during a special investiture ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today. He conferred the award in recognition of his services in promoting and strengthening defence relations between Pakistan and Turkiye.

Later, the visiting Commander of Turkish Land Forces, General Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, also called on the President, at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today. The meeting was also attended by the Chief of Army Staff, General Syed Asim Munir.

The meeting discussed matters pertaining to defence cooperation between the two brotherly countries. Both sides emphasised the need for further expanding bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of Pakistan and Turkiye.

Talking to the Commander of Turkish Land Forces, the President said that Pakistan was proud of its relations with Turkiye, which had always supported Pakistan on core issues. He expressed satisfaction over the collaboration between Pakistan and Turkiye on a number of projects that would further strengthen bilateral ties.

The President highlighted the need for increasing people-to-people contacts, as well as promoting cooperation in the areas of agriculture, education, art and culture to bring the people of Pakistan and Turkiye further closer. He said that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was a true and sincere friend of Pakistan who had made telephonic calls to him on his election as well as at the beginning of Ramzan-ul-Mubarak. This, he added, showed his commitment to broadening Pak-Turkiye ties.

Commander of Turkish Land Forces, General Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, reiterated the desire to further improve defence cooperation with Pakistan. He said that both countries could significantly contribute to the promotion of regional peace and stability.

The President congratulated the Commander of Turkish Land Forces on receiving the Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) and hoped that he would continue to play his role to further strengthen defence cooperation between the two brotherly countries.

—

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has extended warmest congratulations to the people of Pakistan, especially those in Sindh, and their esteemed democratic institutions on the momentous occasion of the Sindh Assembly commemorating 87 years of its parliamentary journey.

According to a press release from the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP remarked in his message that the inaugural session of the Sindh Legislative Assembly was convened on April 27, 1937. He emphasized the enduring legacy of democratic perseverance, noting that even prior to the formation of Pakistan, our forefathers steadfastly championed democratic ideals. Highlighting the pivotal role of Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto in the inception of the first Sindh Assembly, he lamented that a conspiracy deprived him of participation in its maiden session. “Despite the concerted efforts to sideline his party, both Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto and Sir Abdullah Haroon’s party secured a majority in the Sindh Assembly. However, despite this majority, Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto’s party was denied the opportunity to form the government. Instead, the then Governor extended the invitation to a party with merely three members in the House, disregarding the mandate of the majority party,” he pointed out.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reiterated that despite facing numerous conspiracies and injustices, our predecessors remained steadfast in their commitment to fortifying democratic institutions. He emphasized that the annals of his party’s history are replete with a relentless struggle to bolster democracy and its institutions, spanning from the pre-partition era to the present day.

—

According to a press release from the Media Cell Bilawal House, discussions on Pakistan-Palestine relations took place during the meeting. Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, speaking at the event, reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people, particularly on the issue of Gaza. He said that Israel’s actions in Gaza have created such a history of atrocities that have ashamed the humanity. Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the Pakistani nation stands united on the issue of Palestine, and “our hearts beat with the Palestinians.”

Ambassador of Palestine Ahmed Jawad Amin Rabiei presented Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari with commemorative photos of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and Yasser Arafat, as well as a photo of Al-Aqsa Mosque and a commemorative shield.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah was also present at the occasion.

—

President of the Human Rights Cell, Pakistan Peoples Party, Senator Farhatullah  Babar in a statement has said that the decision to cancel the lease of a tennis club named after Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto is an evil act. 

Senator Farhatullah Babar said that for the last 10 years, international and national tournaments have been held in the Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Tennis Club. Cancellation of the lease by CDA on Friday is an attack on the institution named after the martyr, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. 

The CDA crew vandalised the ground located on Embassy Road today, Senator Farhatullah Babar said. The CDA staff has torn up the stay order of Islamabad High Court. Earlier, there was a conspiracy to end the Benazir Income Support Program.

The attack on the tennis ground is an act of prejudice and hatred against Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Senator Farhatullah Babar.

—

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari responded to questions by the media representatives at the National Assembly on Friday. 

Chairman PPP said that the opposition members are afraid of Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari and that is why so much noise was made by them while Bibi Aseefa was taking oath. This shows that they are afraid of a Nihatti Larki (an unarmed girl). We will never be deterred by bullying tactics as we have faced dictators like General Zia and General Musharraf for the last three generations. We will face them with democratic means. Their actions are undermining the sanctity and reverence of the parliament. 

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the Party has made a history yesterday when the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari addressed the parliament for the seventh time. In his address President Zardari pointed out the issues which is the need of the hours. We should think of the country instead of petty differences. We should think of Pakistan and its people. President Zardari gave a roadmap and a message to be united to deal with the issues confronting Pakistan at the moment. The representatives of the people have to play a role and fulfill the responsibility. Unfortunately, the opposition does not have interest in playing their role in the parliament. We should resolve the issues of the people but the only objective of the opposition is to get personal pollical interests and to get the relief for their party leaders. The opposition protest was not democratic and mature. Unfortunately, this behavior of the opposition members compelled the Speaker to suspend membership of two opposition members but it was necessary to set the precedent so that every member should remain within the rules of the parliament. 

Regarding a question about terrorism, Chairman PPP said Imran Khan’s government policy regarding the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, terrorism and about the neighboring country, the way that government let free the terrorists from prisons and invited the terrorists who were in Afghan prisons before the fall of Kabul to enter Pakistan were all wrong. The parliament was not taken on board and the President of the time was giving the terrorists clemency. That was the policy of Imran Khan’s government. We had criticized that policy then and now we should have a clear stance to see the issue as political but as an issue of national security. You cannot have the policy of running with the hare and hunting with the hounds. This dual policy will not work and the Army, police, common people rendered great sacrifices to eliminate these terrorists in the past.

Responding to a question regarding opposition’s hue and cry during President Zardari’s address to the joint session, Chairman PPP said that every political party has the right to do politic but on the issue of foreign affairs, diplomatic issues etc. we should have displayed unity in front of diplomats. These diplomats will tell their countries about this opposition’s behavior as well. 

Speaking about the destruction by the floods in the modern country like United Arab Emirates, Chairman Bilawal said that the climate change is increasing in its intensity with time. Pakistan is an under-developed nation and we are trying to give relief to the people with our limited resources. The floods in 2022 caused huge destruction. We are constructing 2 million houses for those flood-hit people. We have to change our development strategy for the federal and provincial governments and make the infrastructure climate resilient and climate friendly so that we can protect the coming generations and President Zardari has also given a message in this regard in his address yesterday. 

Chairman PPP said that a few decisions of the interim government harmed not only our growers but also our economy as well. The interim government decided to import wheat from other countries resulting in loss of the Pakistani growers but this government has stopped export of wheat which has resulted in improvement of the situation. He said that the reservations being expressed by the growers should be heard and allayed. This is welcome that since this government has come to power, the inflation is decreasing. During the elections, inflation was the main issue and if this government succeeds in lowering inflation then we all will benefit from it. 

Regarding recent visit of the Saudi foreign minister, Chairman Bilawal said that he thinks that it was the most successful visit. Saudi Arabia will play a major role in the investment opportunities in Pakistan. This will provide employment opportunities to people all over the country. It is the responsibility of the government and its allies and the opposition to welcome the foreign delegation. It is so wrong that when the Saudi foreign minister was in Pakistan, a PTI politician levelled false allegation on Saudi Arabia of involvement of removing Imran Khan’s government. We not only condemn that statement but also the dual politics of PTI. This two-faced politics is wrong and the PTI politicians should keep away from the politics of lies. Saudi Arabia has relations with Pakistan not with any particular political party. All political parties should own this relation. 

On the topic of reconciliation, Chairman Bilawal said that the President of Pakistan in his address to the joint session gave clear message of the need for reconciliation and unity. Our three demands are regarding national charter of economy, national charter of reconciliation and the national charter of judicial reforms which we have been raising continuously. The manner in which the PTI does its politics harms national reconciliation repeatedly which is causing harm not only to Pakistan, its economy and the PTI as well. 

Every political party should try to give relief to the people. Prime minister in this regard spoke about these issues which were the PPP point of view in his first speech. Now we have to give time to the government to implement those points in his speech. We hope that the government will provide funds for Benazir Income Support Programme so that we can give relief to the people despite several conditions by the IMF and other financial institutions. 

Chairman Bilawal appreciated Sindh police for thwarting a terror attack in Landhi, Karachi this morning. He said that this is also a reminder that the menace of terrorism is once again raising its head in Pakistan. The federal and provincial governments will have to take action against the terrorists and to ensure to engage the neighboring country to take action against them. Chairman PPP said that as a foreign minister he had held a tripartite dialogue at the foreign ministry among the foreign ministers of China, Afghanistan and Pakistan. We should have similar efforts to eliminate terrorists. 

Regarding the protest movement expected by the JUI in Sindh, Chairman Bilawal said that if he protests then we will facilitate him. Maulana sahib is a senior politician given wrong impression by his people that they lost the elections through rigging. He should have investigation that whether there was rigging or his own people are giving this wrong impression to hide their own weaknesses. Maulana sahib should have protest against Gandapur in Dera Ismail Khan, protest in Peshawar and other parts of KP province. Does he think that rigging was done in Larkana and fair and transparent elections were held in KP?