News

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari addressing a workers’ convention of the Party in Jati Umra, Lahore said that he is grateful to Chaudhary Abdul Ghafoor for not only joining the PPP but contesting the election on its ticket. The PPP will run its full-fledged electoral campaign in NA-125 and will be triumphant.  

Chairman Bilawal said that the PPP is contesting the elections from every constituency. It is contesting the elections to win. The workers of the Party have to work hard day and night. We do not believe in the politics of hatred and division, and will take our manifesto to the people, and contest the elections based on that, as done by our ancestors, Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. The Jiyalas have to go to every doorstep and apprise the masses of the ‘10 promises’ the Party has made. Our 10-point agenda and the economic plan it contains should be conveyed to the people. We have to make the people of Raiwand understand that if they wish to form a government of the people, labourers, farmers and students, then PPP is the sole option, not the PML-N or PTI. The first question you have to ask the people is whether they have got buying power, and the answer will not be affirmative. Our first promise with the people of Pakistan is to double their income within five years, as an effort to increase their buying power. This is our first promise and target. The second question that you need to ask the people is whether they can afford to pay their electricity bills. Our second promise is to provide 300 units of electricity free of cost to the downtrodden masses of the country. Our third promise is to provide free, quality education so that every child has the opportunity to learn. Only the PPP can do this. It is the only party that has established education institutions in every province, from Kashmir to Karachi. Our fourth promise is to provide free of cost, quality healthcare as we have done in different districts of Sindh, including NICVD, Gambat, SIUT etc. These are not mere claims, like the PML-N and PTI. We have done this in Sindh, and wish to serve the people of the entire country in the same manner. Has the government given any free-of-cost hospital in Raiwand? When they face cardiac issues, they run to London. At that time too, we had told them that we have established NICVD and they should have gone there. When they face such issues again, which they ought to after February 8, they can access the same medical treatment in Raiwand, when the PPP establishes hospitals here. Our fifth promise is to build three million houses for the less fortunate and give the women ownership, as we are doing in Sindh. Imran Khan had promised five million houses to the people but could not even build one. We are following the footsteps of Shaheed Quaid-e-Awam, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto who introduced the ‘5 Marla Scheme’ and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto who brought the ‘7 Marla Scheme’. We also wish to give ownership to those living in temporary housing all over the country so they too can feel the security of having a place to call home. We will not only provide them with houses but also regularise temporary accommodation. Our sixth promise is to expand the revolutionary, internationally acclaimed Benazir Income Support Programme introduced by President Zardari to incorporate education, employment and health. We wish to restore all the features of the programme that faced hindrances during the Sharif and Khan tenures in the past, who tried to snatch its name and rob the people of their rights. Our seventh promise is to introduce the ‘Kissan Card’ for our farmers, so that the small farmers of the country can directly reap the benefits of the subsidies that are otherwise enjoyed by mill owners and industries. Similarly, we wish to bring a ‘Mazdoor Card’ for our labourers so that they can attain financial and health benefits, and get their due rights. We wish to support the youth, that constitute 70% of the country’s population. They face immense challenges during this tumultuous time, especially when it comes to getting jobs after completing their education. They are told that they do not have the experience to work despite having the required qualifications. We wish to introduce the ‘Youth Card’ and assist these youngsters financially for a year as they look for employment opportunities. Through this card, we will also provide facilities to the students, especially scholarships and student loans for the deserving youngsters. Our last point, which we believe is imperative is the ‘Bhook Mitao’ programme which we wish to initiate at the level of the union councils, because with the way in which inflation, unemployment and poverty have increased in an unprecedented manner, so has hunger. The PPP will derive a solution for this as well. 

Chairman Bilawal expressed his gratitude to the Party workers, and directed them to take the PPP’s ‘10-point’ manifesto to every doorstep and make them understand that the PPP wishes to put an end to the traditional politics of hate and division. The PPP wishes to introduce a new form of politics, so that we can change the fate of the people. We do not consider any party our competition, enemy or opponent. Our only rival is the poverty, inflation and unemployment, which can only be defeated by choosing the symbol of the arrow and making the PPP victorious.

                                                                                                                               

The Human Rights Cell of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) joins the nation in solemnly commemorating the death anniversary of the esteemed Salman Taseer Shaheed, former Governor of Punjab. On this occasion, we honor his unwavering commitment to defending the rights of religious minorities and standing up against discrimination, hatred, and extremism.

Salman Taseer Shaheed was an exceptional leader who dedicated his life to the principles of justice, equality, and social harmony. His courageous stance in advocating for the rights of religious minorities, particularly his defense of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman falsely accused of blasphemy, serves as a shining example of his unwavering dedication to human rights and social justice.

Through his compassionate leadership, Salman Taseer Shaheed stood against the forces of discrimination and extremism, understanding that a just and inclusive society can only be achieved by upholding the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs. He recognised that diversity is a strength that enriches our nation and that protecting the rights of religious minorities is not only a moral imperative but also a constitutional obligation.

As we remember Salman Taseer Shaheed on this solemn occasion, the PPP Human Rights Cell reaffirms its commitment to carry forward his legacy. We remain resolute in our pursuit of ensuring the protection and promotion of human rights for all individuals, irrespective of their backgrounds or faiths.

Pakistan is a country founded on the principles of democracy, equality, and social justice. It is incumbent upon us, as responsible citizens, to continue Salman Taseer Shaheed’s efforts in eradicating discrimination, hatred, and extremism from our society. The PPP Human Rights Cell calls on all stakeholders, including government institutions, civil society organizations, and citizens, to unite in creating a more inclusive and tolerant Pakistan.

We urge the government to take concrete steps to address the challenges faced by religious minorities and to vigorously prosecute all those who engage in acts of discrimination, violence, or extremism.

On this solemn occasion, the PPP Human Rights Cell pays tribute to Salman Taseer Shaheed for his indomitable spirit, unwavering commitment, and exceptional leadership. Let us remember his sacrifices and carry his vision forward as we strive for a society where every individual, regardless of their belief system, can live in peace, dignity, and harmony.

                                                                                                                               

Former President of Pakistan and President Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians, Asif Ali Zardari and Former Foreign Minister of Pakistan and Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari have strongly condemned the terror act in Iran, which took the lives of innocent civilians. 

President Zardari and Chairman Bilawal expressed sympathy with the people and government of Iran, and also extended their condolences over the martyrdom of citizens.

In this hour of sorrow, the people of Pakistan are with the Iranian brothers, President Zardari and Chairman Bilawal expressed. 

They prayed to Allah Almighty to for speedy recovery of the injured.

                                                                                                                               

Following is the full text of the letter:- 

“We have the honour to invite your kind attention towards the fact that there are some election symbols in the list of approved ECP election symbols which bear close resemblance with the Election symbol (Arrow) of our Pakistan People’s Party Parliamentarians. A list of such symbols is given hereunder:-

Pencil

Ball point pen

 Pen

Screwdriver.

Toothbrush.

This resemblance can confuse ordinary voters and there is a danger that our votes can be stamped on these symbols if these were allotted to other candidates.

We would also bring to your notice that in bye elections 2018 Mr. Jehangir Treen’s prayer in the High Court that the election symbol of PML(N) candidate (Batsman) who was contesting against him should be removed since Mr. Tareen’s symbol (Bat) had a resemblance with the symbol of his opponent, was upheld by the Honourable High Court.

Your honour will appreciate that the resemblance of the symbols mentioned by us with our election symbol (Arrow) is much closer to that which was upheld by the Honourable High Court in Mr. Tareen’s case.

Your honour may be pleased to notify that the five symbols mentioned above by us should be dropped from the list of approved election symbols.”   

                                                                                                                               

According to the press release issued by Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, in his message, said: As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one, I extend my heartiest wishes to the resilient people of Pakistan. May this New Year bring prosperity, joy, and fulfillment to every household.”

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari urged that in the face of challenges, let us remain united, hopeful, and determined to build a better future for our nation. “The legacy of Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto inspires us to continue our unwavering commitment to their unfinished mission of creating a just and prosperous Pakistan,” he added.

Chairman PPP said that his party stands in solidarity with the oppressed people of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) and Palestine, advocating for their rights and freedom. “Our commitment to justice extends beyond borders, and together, we will work towards a world where every individual can live with dignity and peace,” he concluded.

                                                                                                                               

President Zardari in his New Year message said that the killing of humanity in Gaza at the moment has marred the joy of the New Year. The people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir are victims of atrocities of the Indian Army. Asif Ali Zardari said that we have to work for peace, development and prosperity by defeating all kinds of extremism and intolerance. 

Asif Ali Zardari said that Pakistan is facing the damages caused by climate change. Unemployment and inflation have made life difficult for the people. He said that the Pakistan Peoples Party is present in the people’s court in the elections to be held on February 8 next year. 

He said that Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s ten-point manifesto will be a milestone for the development of the country and prosperity of the people. Asif Ali Zardari prayed that the year 2024 would prove to be a year of peace, harmony and blessings for the world and especially for Pakistan. He said that peace is being restored in Pakistan with the hard work and sacrifice of the Pakistan Army, police officers and soldiers. He said that the development of the country and the prosperity of the people is the manifesto of Pakistan Peoples Party. The Pakistan Peoples Party will eliminate hunger, unemployment, inflation and economic miseries from the country after winning the elections.

                                                                                                                               

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has termed the economic crisis, climate breakdown and growing population as a challenging situation for the nation, but has also reiterated his resolve, saying, “We will turn our difficulties into opportunities. Problems can be solved by working together and utilizing the country’s resources.”

Addressing the annual function of Bakhtawar Cadet College for Women as Chief Guest, PPP Chairman said that the future of the country is the youth of Pakistan. He said that “if the politics of division, hatred and abuse are buried”, Pakistan’s problems can be solved. “Pakistan is currently facing many difficulties,” he said, adding that on the one hand there are threats caused by the economic crisis and climate change, on the other hand there is the pressure of problems arising due to the growing population in the country.

He said that the ideology of Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, ‘Roti, Kapra Aur Makan’, is as much needed today as it may not have been before. He said that due to climate change, our region is under threat due to the melting of snow in the Himalayan range, and added: “in the years to come, there will be floods first and after some time (as the snow melts in the Himalayan range) the people here will suffer from thirst.” He said that Pakistan is the fifth largest country in the world in terms of population. “70% of our population consists of youth, whose needs include education, employment and health,” he added.

Chairman PPP, while discussing the solutions to the problems facing the country, said that the incoming government will first have to take responsibility to double the salaries to fight inflation during its five-year term. “Pakistan is an agricultural country, and we all know that if the farmers are prosperous, the whole of Pakistan will be prosperous,” he said, adding that PPP intends to take measures for the prosperity of farmers across Pakistan. The PPP government will introduce Kisan Card for farmers, Mazdoor Card for laborers and Youth Card for youth. He said that instead of giving the subsidy of billions of rupees to the mill owners through the said cards, the funds will directly reach the backward working classes. “The first right to workers in Pakistan was given by the Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfiqkar Ali Bhutto,” he recalled.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that provision of education and employment opportunities by the government is the right of the youth, adding that vocational training facilities will be provided to the youth along with financial support through Youth Card and Youth Centers. He vowed that youth centers will be established in every district with digital library, free Wi-Fi facility, vocational training and career counseling as well as cultural and sports facilities, adding that steps will be taken at the government level for the employment of Pakistani youths abroad. “(From the time of the foreign ministry term) I have also started working in this regard and have also spoken to Japan and Europe,” he said.

He said that health facilities are the right of every citizen, and money should not be a barrier to treatment, and added: “under this ideology we have built institutions like NICVD and Gambat Hospital.” He said that the revolution in the health sector that has come in Sindh, he wants to spread it all over Pakistan, adding that because we have demonstrated this in Sindh, we can provide similar facilities in other parts of the country.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that if the PPP is successful in the upcoming elections due on February 8 next year, then its government will build the development projects across the country keeping in view the climate changes. He urged the nation, saying: “we have to explain to the world that in the situation caused by climate change, Pakistan’s role is at the forefront of the war. Pakistan’s share in these factors is not even one percent, which are the cause of climate change.”

PPP Chairman, while discussing the solution to the energy crisis facing the country, stressed that Pakistan has to invest in green and solar energy. He said that the PPP government established after winning the election will establish energy parks at the district level under public-private partnership and free electricity will be provided to poor families using up to 300 units per month.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that Pakistan has so many resources that the problems faced by the nation can be solved. “Babus (bureaucracy) of Islamabad say that there is not enough funds in the country, but let me tell you that from where we can save money and spend it on the welfare of public,” he said, adding that the incoming PPP government will abolish these 17 ministries in the Center, which are not constitutionally required after the 18th Amendment. He pointed out that by closing those 17 ministries in the Center, Rs 300 billion can be saved annually and such money could be spent on the development and welfare of the people. “If traditional politics of division and hatred are left aside and joint efforts are made, then the destiny of the country can be changed,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was received by Chairman of the Board of Governors of the educational institution Vice Air Chief Khalid Mehmood and Principal Dr. Farida Sheikh on his arrival at Pakistan’s first women’s cadet college, the Bakhtawar Cadet College. During the ceremony Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was presented Guard of Honour by the third badge of Bakhtawar Cadet College. On this occasion, former Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and former Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho also accompanied by Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

                                                                                                                               

According to the press statement issued by Media Cell Bilawal House, the Chairman PPP, in his message to nation, said that as we celebrate the birthday of our Quaid, let us reflect on his steadfast commitment to justice, equality, and the principles that define the essence of Pakistan. He further said that Quaid-e-Azam was a democratic visionary leader, whose unwavering dedication paved the way for the creation of our beloved country, Pakistan. “Our Quaid’s indomitable spirit and unparalleled leadership continue to inspire generations, reminding us of the ideals upon which our great nation stands,” he added. 

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that PPP steadfastly upholds the visionary ideals and objectives of the nation’s founder, working towards the realization of an inclusive, democratic, and progressive Pakistan. He pointed out that Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto fulfilled Quaid-e-Azam’s vision by presenting the historic unanimous Constitution in 1973—a democratic structure grounded in the principles of equal rights for all and laying the groundwork for a robust defense, adding that in the face of the heartbreaking loss of her father, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto fearlessly took up the mantle, dedicating her life to the noble causes of democracy and uplifting the marginalized, ultimately making the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of these lofty ideals. “President Asif Ali Zardari, during his presidency, diligently worked to bolster the ideals and objectives set forth by Quaid-i-Azam, achieving a significant milestone through the restoration of the 1973 constitution to its authentic form via the 18th constitutional amendment,” he added.

Chairman PPP said that Quaid-e-Azam envisioned a Pakistan that stands as a beacon of democracy, progress, and inclusivity, where every citizen, irrespective of color, caste, or creed, enjoys equal opportunities, adding that in the present moment, the call to uphold this philosophy has never been more pressing. “In unity, we stand, resolute against ideologies seeking change through coercion instead of the ballot, all while unwaveringly adhering to the principles of democracy,” he concluded.

                                                                                                                               

According to the press statement issued by Media Cell Bilawal House, the Chairman PPP, in his message, said: “on Christmas, I extend my warmest wishes to the Christian community. May the festivities bring joy, and may the new year ahead be filled with prosperity and harmony.”  He lauded the role Pakistani Christians played in all fields, especially education and health and said the nation was proud of their participation in the country’s development. 

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari underscored his party’s consistent advocacy for the rights of the downtrodden and marginalized, affirming the party’s commitment to treating non-Muslims, including Christians of the state, as equal citizens. He said that PPP is committed to protecting the rights as well as welfare and prosperity of all minorities and downtrodden classes including the Christian community of the country. “I am sure that the first and only choice of all the minorities of the country including the Christian community as well as the conscious Pakistanis in the February 8 polls will be ‘Arrow’ to transform Pakistan into a more harmonious, tolerant and progressive society.

                                                                                                                               

Former President of Pakistan and President Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians, Asif Ali Zardari in his message on the occasion of the birth anniversary of the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah has said that the PPP is determined to make the country a democratic and welfare state according to the spirit of the philosophy of Quaid-e-Azam. Asif Ali Zardari said that the national anthem of Pakistan reflects the philosophy of Quaid-e-Azam, which states that the source of power is the people.

President Zardari said that the founder of Pakistan was a democrat and an enlightened leader, while being a lawyer, he was also an advocate of human and religious freedom. He said that the 1973 Constitution created by Quaid-e-Awam, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto is the practical manifestation of Quaid-e-Azam’s vision, and acts as the guarantor of the survival and security of the country.

Asif Ali Zardari said that the PPP will continue to defend the freedom of expression, political and religious freedom in the country created by Quaid-e-Azam. 

A certain thought wants to impose its ideals on the country and society under the guise of religion, which is contrary to the philosophy of Quaid-e-Azam, and cannot be allowed under any circumstances.