Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari has called on families and communities across Pakistan to fully cooperate with the upcoming nationwide polio vaccination campaign, set to begin on 13 April, and ensure that every child is protected from the disease.

The campaign aims to vaccinate over 45 million children under the age of five across all provinces and regions as part of the ongoing national effort to eradicate polio.

Pakistan, she noted, stands at a critical juncture in its fight against the virus. Years of sustained effort have brought the country closer to eradication, with the coming phase representing the final stretch where reaching every child is essential.

From 13 to 19 April, frontline health workers will conduct door-to-door visits, covering urban centres as well as remote communities. In addition to administering polio drops, children will also receive Vitamin A supplementation to support immunity and healthy growth.

The First Lady highlighted measurable progress. In 2025, 31 cases of polio were reported nationwide, while in 2026 only one case has been recorded so far. She cautioned, however, that the threat persists. As long as the virus exists anywhere, it remains a risk everywhere. She stressed the need for consistency, urging parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive vaccination in every campaign, alongside routine immunisation.

The campaign will be conducted in coordination with Afghanistan, reflecting a shared commitment to interrupt cross-border transmission and close remaining gaps.

Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also acknowledged the contribution of frontline workers, whose continued efforts remain central to reaching every household.

She called for collective resolve, emphasising that ending polio is now within reach and depends on the participation of parents, families, communities and institutions alike. No child, she underscored, can be left behind.

On the occasion of Constitution Day, Secretary General of Pakistan People’s Party, Syed Nayyer Hussain Bukhari, has extended his warmest felicitations to the nation. In his message, he stated that the Constitution of 1973 is a monumental gift to the people of Pakistan, symbolizing democracy and the rule of law.

Bukhari said that it is a matter of pride for the PPP that the party has always stood for democracy and the Constitution. He paid tribute to the vision of the Quaid-e-Awam and the founding fathers of the Constitution, who laid the foundation of a parliamentary system and ensured the rights of the people.

He further stated that April 10 is a significant day in Pakistan’s history, marking the adoption of the Constitution that guarantees federalism, provincial autonomy, and the rights of citizens. The PPP is committed to upholding the principles of the Constitution and ensuring that the sacrifices made for democracy are not forgotten.

Bukhari praised President Asif Ali Zardari for strengthening the parliament by delegating powers, and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for his efforts in approving the 26th Constitutional Amendment, fulfilling the promise of the Benazir-Bhutto Accord. He emphasized that Bilawal Bhutto is a strong voice for democracy and the Constitution in the parliament.

Pakistan is proud to have led with wisdom, resolve, and a steadfast commitment to peace, and remains deeply appreciative of the leadership of Iran and the United States for stepping back from the brink and choosing dialogue over devastation. I commend the tireless efforts of the leadership in Tehran, Washington, and Islamabad in creating the space for de-escalation and diplomacy to prevail.

This ceasefire offers a critical opening for the region to breathe, recover, and turn away from the shadow of a wider war. May this not remain merely a pause in conflict, but become the beginning of a durable peace, one that unlocks stability, promotes cooperation, and advances shared prosperity for our region and the world.

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..

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.

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.

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..

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.

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.