Islamabad : Chairman Senate Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani addressed a seminar organised by Pakistan Peoples Party Rawalpindi City at the Rawalpindi Arts Council, stating that Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was a symbol of ideology, democracy, and public consciousness.
He remarked that April 4 is a significant and painful day in national history, reminding the nation of the great sacrifices made for democracy and the rights of the people, says a press release.
Chairman Senate Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani was addressing the seminar as chief guest on the occasion of the 47th death anniversary of former prime minister Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
He stated that the 1973 Constitution remains a historic achievement of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, which laid a strong foundation for the country’s democratic structure. He added that the establishment of the Senate reflects Bhutto’s federal vision, ensuring equal representation of provinces and addressing feelings of deprivation.
He further said that the 18th Constitutional Amendment strengthened democracy by empowering the provinces. Chairman Gilani emphasised that ZAB elevated Pakistan’s global stature, gave the nation its identity, and ensured the right to vote for the people.
Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani noted that laying the foundation of the nuclear program and establishing major industrial projects such as Pakistan Steel Mills were among Bhutto’s key achievements, which contributed to national defense and created employment opportunities.
He said that Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto carried forward Bhutto’s mission in an exemplary manner, while Asif Ali Zardari transferred powers to Parliament and elected representatives through the 18th Amendment. He described Bilawal Bhutto Zardari as a leader of the younger generation, noting that more than 60 percent of Pakistan’s population consists of youth, which is a guarantee of a bright future. In conclusion, the Chairman Senate congratulated Mian Khurram Rasool on the successful organization of the seminar.
Former Prime Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, while addressing the seminar, recalled his student days and said that he had personally witnessed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as a fearless and people-centric leader.
