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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.

                                                                                                                               

Formed President of Pakistan and President Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians, Asif Ali Zardari has congratulated the Christians all over the world, especially members of the community living in Pakistan on the occasion of Christmas. He said that the role of the Christian community for the development of Pakistan is unforgettable.

President Asif Ali Zardari said that Quaid-e-Awam, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto had given all non-Muslims the right to be equal citizens in the 1973 Constitution. Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto had defended the fundamental rights of non-Muslim citizens.

Asif Ali Zardari said that the Christian community should ensure that their children attain higher education so that they can serve the country and the nation according to their ability and make Pakistan proud. On this festive occasion, the great sacrifice rendered by Shaheed Dr. Shahbaz Bhatti should also be remembered whose services for the country and democracy are unforgettable.

                                                                                                                               

Former President of Pakistan and President Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians, Asif Ali Zardari has expressed his regret and sorrow over the killing of five laborers in South Waziristan

President Zardari in a statement said that the killing of the workers constructing the police station is a very brutal act. He demanded that the terrorists and planners involved in the killing of workers should be brought to justice. 

Asif Ali Zardari expressed sympathy and condolences to the families of the martyred workers.

                                                                                                                               

Honourable Chief Election Commissioner, Pakistan,

ISLAMABAD. 

Respected sir, 

          We have the honour to draw your kind attention to Section 18 of the Code of Conduct in which, ‘mayor/chairman/Nazim have also been restricted from participating in election campaigns. 

          Sir, as you are aware there is no law which prohibits a mayor/chairman/Nazim of Local Governments from contesting elections on a general seat for Provincial and National assemblies and presently there are many cases in which those elected in the Local Government elections are filing nomination papers for contesting on PA and NA seats in the forthcoming general elections. These candidates, naturally have to run and lead their election campaigns. 

          We also wish to point out to your honour that in the province of Punjab appointed village councils have replaced the constitutionally mandated local governments and these appointed persons are fully participating in the election campaign of a certain political party. As a matter of fact there are widespread reports that the village councils are providing jobs and contracts to the loyalists of that particular political party. You may be pleased to recall that in the meeting of our delegation with your good self we had pointed out the illegality of the appointed village councils in Punjab and your honour had concurred in principle with our point of view. 

            Sir, while there already is a ban on the use of government resources in election campaigns you may be pleased to direct that section 18 of the Code of Conduct may be so amended as to exclude the names of ‘mayor/chairman/Nazim’ from the list of those who cannot participate in election campaigns.

             Secondly, your honour may be pleased to order that appointed village councils in the Province of Punjab may be dismissed with immediate effect. 

Thanking you and with best regards;

                                                                                                                                  Yours sincerely;

                                                                                                                                (Senator Taj Haider)

                                                                                                                    In-charge PPP Central election Cell

Plea for compassion & humanity instead of ego to address enforced disappearances

The excessive use of force against peaceful demonstrators from Turbat to raise their voice against enforced disappearances in Rawalpindi and subsequently in Islamabad is condemned in the strangest terms. If the law enforcing agencies hoped to prevent their voice from reaching far and wide, it has miserably failed.

This was stated by Senator Farhatullah Babar, president human rights cell of the PPP after visiting the uprooted camp in front of the National Press Club Islamabad Thursday afternoon.

The sight of a few frightened men and women crammed in the uprooted camp with no one from the government to put balm on their wounds will send shivers even among the coldest observers, he said.

He said that the protestors did not expect that the march would result in the production of the disappeared nor they sought a show down. They only wanted their voice to reach out to the powers that be in the capital and to the world at large. The images of state brutality against them in digital spaces, if not in mainstream media, however has frustrated bid to stifle voices of anguish.

He said that since 9/11 enforced disappearances has been institutionalized as admitted by General Musharraf in his memoirs that hundreds of people were handed over the CIA in return of millions of dollars.

The Commission of Enforced Disappearance set up under legislation in 2010 has utterly failed as it has not identified, let alone prosecuted and punished, a single perpetrator of the crime. “The impunity of the crime is frightening and poses threat to the integrity of the federation”.

In the month of December one wishes to recall the Supreme Court verdict delivered in this month a decade ago in 2013 in the case of disappearance of 35 persons from Malakand Internment Centre as reported in PLD 2014 SC 305, he said.

The SC then identified the elements behind the disappearances and directed the government to “immediately proceed with the case and ensure recovery of these persons within seven days and submit report to Registrar for our perusal” It also directed that “the persons who are responsible for the same, should be dealt with strictly in accordance with law”, he said.

He said that disappearances with impunity brought to mind the frightening Chilean model of the 1970s when fear and terror was institutionalized through disappearances and extrajudicial killings.

The Chilean dictator Pinochet was finally brought to justice to some extent under the principle of universal jurisdiction to punish such crimes. It may be a small consolation but the victims of disappearances and their families in Pakistan perhaps do not seek this consolation. All they seek is that those who have disappeared be brought into the open and tried under law for any wrongdoing they may be alleged of having committed, he said.

Senator Farhatullah Babar urged the authorities to heal the wounds of the families of victims of disappearances before it is too late. Let compassion, humanity and rule of law and not the ego of a few individuals serve as the compass, he said.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on arrival at the residence of a senior party worker, Zubaida Shaheen to enquire about her health in Lahore spoke to the journalists. He said that he is delighted that he has come to Lahore as the PPP was founded in Lahore and we will work hard to bring the party at a stage where it was during the times of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. 

Chairman Bilawal said that the people of the country are in trouble because of high inflation. The government of the Party will be representative of the people and will resolve the issues faced by them. The PPP has always fought against poverty, inflation and unemployment. The PPP has always fought poverty and there is no opponent of the Party but poverty, unemployment and price hike. He said that the traditional parties are doing the politics of hatred and division whereas we are doing the politics to serve the people. He promised to solve the problems of the people with their support.

Responding to the questions by the journalists, he said that we have to implement the slogan of “Roti, Kapra Aur Makaan”. In the past we had introduced the revolutionary programme by the name of Benazir Income Support programme to provide financial relief to the poor women and to save them from acute poverty. On similar lines we will introduce the ‘Youth Card’. We want to help those who are in need. 

Responding to a question, Chairman Bilawal said that we will not only give a surprise in Balochistan but also in the entire country including Punjab if we get a level playing field. He said that the door of dialogue is always open in politics. We are facing a situation in which the politics of division is at its peak in Pakistan. We would like to take every party along with us when we come to power. We are all patriotic Pakistanis and we will work together. We are passing through a historic economic crisis and to emerge from it, will have to introduce a new kind of politics. The workers of the party in Lahore are courageous and steadfast and have stood with us during even the most barbaric dictatorships. We are proud of the PPP workers who offered great sacrifices. The PPP gave rights to the growers and laborers. The PPP is a party of the downtrodden masses, Chairman Bilawal said.

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