Women from different walks of life paid tributes to Benazir Bhutto on Tuesday, saying that the slain Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader is their role model and her struggle for democracy will carry on to pave way for an egalitarian society.
On the occasion of Bhutto’s fourth death anniversary, they said the PPP leader was an ideal political activist and an equally ideal daughter, who advanced the vision of her illustrious father for the benefit of the masses.
They said keeping aside politics, Bhutto, who was the first female prime minister of the Muslim world, was the only one who factually contributed towards women’s empowerment in Pakistan.
“The job quota for women coupled and the setting up of a first women bank are some of her contributions towards the economic uplifting of women,” said Dr Fizza Almani, coordinator of Sisters, an NGO based in rural Sindh.
Mehnaz Rehman, a senior journalist and activist working for the cause of women, also recalled the appointment of female judges in higher courts and the establishment of women police stations in different parts of the country as more achievements of Bhutto.
“These measures paved way for social uplifting of women and also engendered a sense of security among them,” she said.
Prof Mahjabeen Raza, a retired teacher of political science said one may differ with Bhutto’s policies and approach yet the fact remains that she is an icon not only for Muslim women but for women from across the globe.
“There were indeed compulsions that could not be avoided and she had to work within the system, however, she delivered what ever she could,” she added.
wasan: The PPP government is pursuing the vision and philosophy of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto for fostering democracy and strengthening the country, Sindh Home Minister Manzoor Wasan said on Tuesday.
“That is why the politics of reconciliation is being promoted,” he added.
The minister said Benazir Bhutto sacrificed her life for the cause of democracy.
“The present government is carrying forward the policy of reconciliation and completing projects for the welfare of the people.”
Wasan, recounting the achievements of the present government, said the 1973 constitution has been restored to its original position and the National Finance Commission accord approved with consensus.
He further said the country’s political parties enjoy full freedom to pursue the democratic process.
“The recent PTI public meeting in Karachi is an example,” he added.