The main gathering is set to take place in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, the ancestral village and final resting place of the Bhutto family. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, President Asif Ali Zardari, and key national and provincial leaders of the party are scheduled to deliver speeches at the event.

Benazir’s youngest child, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, who is now the first lady of Pakistan and central president of PPP’s Ladies Wing and Asif’s sister and member of provincial assembly (MPA) Faryal Talpur, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah had reached the Presidential House Naudero in Garhi Khudabakhsh a day ahead of the anniversary.

Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and other leaders are also present there.

At the gathering’s scene, a 60-foot-wide main stage has been decorated with party flags, portraits of Benazir and other party leaders. Famous poets of the country will pay tribute to their late leader through poetry on the occasion.

Meanwhile, CCTV cameras have been installed around Garhi Khuda Bakhsh and surrounding areas by Larkana Police, and 8,500 police officers and personnel, including SSUs, ladies, traffic personnel and commandos have been deputed to ensure security.

As the PPP remembers its leader, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also gave a message on Benazir’s death anniversary.

“Today, we commemorate the 17th anniversary of the martyrdom of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. A champion of democracy, and a staunch advocate of the power of dialogue and reconciliation in the political process, Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto remains an icon of courage and resilience,” he wrote in a post on X, this morning.

He said that the Charter of Democracy, signed between Benazir and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s President Nawaz Sharif, stands as a testament to her enduring legacy.

“I offer my deepest respect to her family, especially President Asif Ali Zardari and [PPP] Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and to her followers, who are proudly carrying forward her vision and advancing her ideals,” he concluded.

Mrs. Faryal Talpur, President Pakistan Peoples Party Women’s Wing and Member of the Sindh Assembly, paid glowing tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto on her 17th martyrdom anniversary. She described her as an extraordinary leader, a beacon of hope for the people, and a symbol of democracy.

In her message, Mrs. Faryal Talpur emphasized that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s unwavering struggle for democracy, human rights, and social justice continues to serve as a guiding light for the Pakistan Peoples Party and the nation.

She stated that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s life was a testament to courage, resilience, and selfless dedication to the rights of the oppressed. She stood fearlessly against tyranny and injustice, dedicating her life to the dream of a progressive and prosperous Pakistan.

Mrs. Faryal Talpur further said that the leadership of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto paved the way for empowering women, protecting the rights of minorities, and strengthening democratic institutions.

She also lauded the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, stating that they are carrying forward Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s mission with determination and vision. She remarked that President Asif Ali Zardari is undoubtedly the custodian of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s philosophy of reconciliation, while Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari embodies the same courage and commitment that defined her legacy.

Under Chairman Bilawal Bhutto’s leadership, the Pakistan Peoples Party continues its struggle for the rights of the people and is realizing the vision of its great leader.

Mrs. Faryal Talpur urged party workers and the nation to honor the memory of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto by upholding the principles she stood for: democracy, equality, and social justice. She called on everyone to renew their commitment to unity and to building Pakistan where the dreams of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto can flourish.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, speaking at the convocation ceremony of Sukkur IBA University, Chairman PPP said, “It is a matter of pride for me that this institution was established by my mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, during her second tenure as Prime Minister. The seed planted by her has now grown into a tree, earning recognition not only nationally but also globally.” He highlighted that students from across Pakistan and even international students from countries like Sri Lanka are receiving education at the university.

Discussing the role of students in addressing national challenges and enhancing Pakistan’s global image, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said, “Students must utilize their knowledge for Pakistan’s development. Today, we face challenges such as poverty, economic inequality, and climate change.” He added, “It is the government’s duty to control various aspects of governance, but when it attempts to overstep and control individuals or institutions, it is up to the youth to resist these efforts and assert their rights.”

He reminded the audience that every generation has fought for its rights. “Democracy wasn’t handed to us as a gift; it was achieved through struggle. Generations of youth, using their education, voices, and skills, have defeated oppressors time and again. From the colonial era to today, the youth have been at the forefront.”

Chairman PPP expressed concern about the current state of the digital space in Pakistan. He called upon the youth to engage in peaceful and democratic struggles for their digital rights. He criticized the outdated understanding of technology by decision-makers in Islamabad, stating, “How can bureaucrats in their 60s, who still use old Nokia phones, comprehend the rights of the digital generation? How would they understand WhatsApp, Netflix, or gaming? We must claim our rights from them.” He further noted the irony of how two young Pakistanis from Lahore were among the pioneers in creating the world’s first computer virus, showcasing the capabilities of Pakistani youth.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stressed the need for better internet access and data privacy protections for the younger generation. He announced plans to visit educational institutions across the country, including Sindh, to gather student feedback on proposed digital rights legislation. “Tag me on social media and share your suggestions,” he urged the youth, committing to raising awareness on the issue.

Addressing climate change, he warned of severe consequences if its impact is not mitigated. “Pakistan risks devastating floods and infrastructure collapse if we fail to address climate change,” he stated. He criticized both bureaucrats and senior politicians for their lack of understanding of such crucial issues, focusing only on budgets and public sector development programs.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari lamented the absence of proper planning to combat climate change in the federal budget. He pointed out that Pakistan is among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change. He urged developed nations to take responsibility, stating, “The industrialization and capitalism of these countries have caused the climate crisis. While they amassed wealth, they ignored the damage inflicted on the rest of the world. Now, when others seek their fair share, they lecture us about climate change limitations. If these countries profited from industrialization, others also have a right to that wealth.” He concluded, “We’re not asking for personal compensation but for funds to repair the damage they have caused.”

Chairman extended his best wishes to the graduating students, urging them to contribute to national progress through the power of education. He praised the Sindh government’s achievements in health and education, highlighting how students from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Punjab, and even Sri Lanka come to Sindh for quality education at institutions like IBA Sukkur, just as patients from across Pakistan seek treatment at Sindh’s hospitals.

During the event, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari distributed medals and certificates to students, accompanied by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.

In a statement issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP highlighted the unparalleled vision, leadership, and dedication of Quaid-e-Azam in achieving an independent homeland for the Muslims of the subcontinent. “Quaid-e-Azam’s principles of Unity, Faith, and Discipline remain a beacon of guidance for every Pakistani. His dream of a democratic, inclusive, and prosperous Pakistan is a mission that we, as a nation, must strive to fulfill,” he said.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reiterated the Pakistan Peoples Party’s unwavering commitment to upholding the ideals of the Quaid. He emphasized the importance of preserving the spirit of tolerance, justice, equality, and democracy that Muhammad Ali Jinnah envisioned for Pakistan. “Quaid-e-Azam led a democratic and peaceful struggle for the rights of the oppressed. His values are the cornerstone of our nationhood, and his life serves as an enduring lesson in perseverance and patriotism,” he stated.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari concluded by stating that the Pakistan Peoples Party remains committed in its efforts to realize the Quaid’s vision of a progressive and democratic Pakistan. “On this auspicious day, let us reaffirm our resolve to make Pakistan a true reflection of the Quaid’s ideals,” he said.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed gratitude and termed the resounding victory of the Peoples Labor Union in the CBA elections of Port Qasim Authority PQA) as a triumph for the workers associated with the Authority.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP congratulated the newly elected President of the Peoples Labor Union, Syed Lal Hussain Shah, General Secretary Sher Muhammad Baloch, and all other successful candidates. He also acknowledged the efforts of the President of the Peoples Labor Bureau (PLB), Habibuddin Junaidi, General Secretary Syed Fayaz Shah, and Karachi Division President Aslam Samoon for their contributions to the union’s success in the Port Qasim Authority CBA elections.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed hope that the newly elected office-bearers and members of the Peoples Labor Union would work with even greater zeal and commitment to empower the workers of the PQA. Addressing the workers of the PQA and laborers across the country, he reaffirmed that the Pakistan Peoples Party is the true representative of the working class and remains steadfast in its agenda to protect labor rights and promote their well-being without compromise.

President Asif Ali Zardari has emphasized the need for enhancing parliamentary cooperation and high-level exchanges with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to deepen the fraternal relationship between Pakistan and KSA. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening economic, political, and cultural ties with KSA for the mutual benefit of both nations.

The President expressed these views while talking to the Chairman of the Shura Council of KSA, Dr Abdullah bin Mohammad bin Ibrahim Al-Sheikh, who along with members of the Shura Council called on him, at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today. Speaker National Assembly, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Deputy Speaker National Assembly Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, Nawaf Bin Said Al-Malki, members of Parliament and senior government officials also attended the meeting.

Welcoming the delegation, the President said that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia enjoyed historic and brotherly ties, rooted in shared faith, history, and culture. He highlighted the immense potential for expanding economic and investment cooperation and called for making efforts to fully realize this potential.

The President expressed concern over the grave situation in the Middle East, arising out of the Israeli aggression targeting innocent civilians in Palestine, Lebanon and Syria. He said that Pakistan stood in complete solidarity with their brothers and sisters from Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria.

The President conveyed his greetings and good wishes to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and His Royal Highness Prince Muhammed bin Salman. He said that the people of Pakistan prayed for the good health, well-being and long life of His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz.

During the meeting, both sides emphasized the need to transform the longstanding bilateral relationship into a more robust and strategic partnership. Dr Al-Sheikh described his visit to Pakistan as highly productive, noting that he had fruitful discussions with Pakistan’s leadership and parliamentarians.

Chairman of the Shura Council of KSA conveyed the greetings and good wishes of His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz and His Royal Highness Prince Muhammed bin Salman for the President’s health.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has strongly condemned the terrorist attack on a police checkpoint in Shangla district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which resulted in the martyrdom of two police personnel, including an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI).

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP paid tribute to the martyred ASI Hassan Khan and Constable Nisar Khan, stating that the nation will never forget the sacrifices of its martyrs. He extended heartfelt condolences and solidarity with the families of the fallen heroes and urged authorities to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the two injured policemen. He lauded the unparalleled and enduring sacrifices of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police in the fight against terrorism.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed deep concern over the rise in terrorist incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He criticized the PTI-led provincial government’s lack of interest in combating terrorism, describing it as a disregard for the national resolve. Reiterating his commitment to the fight against extremism, he declared that despite all challenges, the sacrifices of the martyrs will bear fruit, and Pakistan will ultimately triumph in the war against terrorism and extremism.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has strongly condemned the terrorist attacks targeting polio workers busy in the ongoing anti-polio campaign in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and expressed serious concern over the increasing frequency of such incidents.

In a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP expressed profound sorrow over the martyrdom of a polio worker and a policeman providing security to the polio team in separate attacks in the Kala Khel Masti Khan area of Bannu district and in Karak district. He paid tribute to the martyrs for their sacrifice and extended heartfelt condolences and solidarity to their grieving families.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has called for a detailed report on these attacks from the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi. Stressing the vital importance of ensuring the safety of polio workers, he urged the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to implement stringent security measures to protect polio teams and ensure the successful continuation of the anti-polio campaign.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has paid tribute to the martyrs of the Army Public School (APS) Peshawar tragedy on the 10th anniversary of the horrific attack, emphasizing the nation’s resolve to combat terrorism and safeguard future generations.

In a statement issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP expressed profound sorrow over the loss of innocent lives in the barbaric attack on December 16, 2014. “The APS carnage remains one of the darkest chapters in Pakistan’s history, a tragedy that shook the conscience of the nation and united us against the menace of terrorism,” he said. He aslo lauded the resilience and courage of the families of the martyred children and staff members.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari called upon the federal and provincial governments to ensure the effective implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) to prevent such tragedies in the future. He emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of radicalization through education, economic opportunities, and social harmony.

Chairman reaffirmed the Pakistan Peoples Party’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism and promoting tolerance, education, and peace across the country. “On this deeply painful day, let us honor the memory of the APS martyrs by renewing our pledge to fight for a Pakistan free from terrorism, where every child can dream fearlessly and achieve their potential,” he concluded.

President Asif Ali Zardari has called for greater Chinese investment in diverse sectors of Pakistan’s economy to boost economic and commercial cooperation between the two brotherly countries. He also emphasized the need for enhanced interaction between the people of the two countries, especially between the investors and businesses, to increase bilateral trade and economic relations.

The President expressed these views while talking to a Chinese business delegation, led by the Chinese Consul General in Karachi, Mr Yang Yundong, at Bilawal House, Karachi. Chief Minister Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, Minister for Transport and Information, Mr Sharjeel Inam Memon, Minister for Energy, Planning and Development, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, and Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Investment and Public Private Partnerships, Syed Qasim N Qamar, also attended the meeting.

The delegation expressed interest to invest $1 billion to establish a medical city in Pakistan to advance the country’s healthcare sector. The delegation also expressed interest to invest in diverse sectors of Pakistan’s economy, especially agriculture, livestock, energy, transport, and manufacturing.

Welcoming the delegation, the President said that Pakistan and China shared commonalities of interest and views on important issues, besides enjoying deep-rooted and historic brotherly ties. “We have been close friends for decades, and it was my vision to develop Gawadar Port into a regional trade and economic hub that would not only improve regional connectivity but would also boost regional trade and economic cooperation,” he stated.

The President said that Pakistan would welcome Chinese investors and preferred to do business with China. He stated that Pakistan was committed to facilitating and supporting Chinese investors in every possible way.