President, Bilawal pay tribute to Benazir Bhutto on Karsaz anniversary

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari paid tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and the martyrs of democracy on the 18th anniversary of Karsaz tragedy.

He said that from that day until her martyrdom, her life and sacrifice remained a source of guidance and strength for all those who stood for democracy and peace.

The president said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto returned to Pakistan on this day despite clear threats to her life, adding she remained resolute after the terrorist attack at Karsaz and continued her struggle for the restoration of democracy.

“Recalling the events that followed, the president said that she visited hospitals and neighbourhoods the next day to meet the injured and console the bereaved families, reflecting her deep concern for her workers and the people of Pakistan,” President Secretariat Press Wing said in a press release.

As the nation continued to confront terrorism and extremism, the courage and sacrifice of the martyrs of the Karsaz tragedy reinforced their resolve to defeat all such forces, he further added.

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has paid glowing tribute to the martyrs of the Karsaz tragedy on its 18th anniversary, honoring their unshakable courage, unwavering loyalty, and supreme sacrifices for democracy.

In his message, Bilawal said October 18, 2007, is etched forever in the nation’s memory, marking the day when over 3 million people gathered to welcome Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto back to her homeland.

He said it was also the day when 180 brave party workers laid down their lives for the dream of a democratic Pakistan.

Bilawal recalled that dictatorship and terrorism had joined hands to launch a heinous attack on Benazir Bhutto’s caravan. “Those who attacked the caravan of Benazir wanted to extinguish the light of democracy — but the blood of our martyrs only made it shine brighter,” he said.

He vowed to carry forward the mission of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto and the martyrs of Karsaz, reaffirming his commitment to building a Pakistan where democracy, equality, and justice prevail.

“The blood of our martyrs continues to illuminate our journey toward a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Pakistan,” Bilawal Bhutto Zardari added.