Islamabad, January 5, 2026: Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, on Monday paid glowing tribute to the founder of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and former prime minister, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, on his 98th birth anniversary, describing his multifaceted services as a “glorious chapter” in Pakistan’s national history.
In a statement, the Chairman Senate said Shaheed Bhutto rendered unforgettable services for the promotion of democracy, protection of human rights, and the supremacy of the people. He noted that under Bhutto’s visionary leadership, Pakistan was given its first unanimous Constitution, which laid strong foundations for the federation and ensured the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani said that Shaheed Bhutto’s effective strategy to strengthen national defence, along with his historic decision to lay the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, proved to be a lasting guarantee of national security, enabling Pakistan to respond decisively to any external aggression.
Highlighting Bhutto’s people-centric vision, the Chairman Senate said his political wisdom continues to serve as a guiding light for the nation. He added that by following Bhutto’s ideals, marginalized segments of society — including the poor, farmers, labourers, women and minorities — could be empowered and fully integrated into the national mainstream, fostering harmony and prosperity.
Paying rich tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Gilani said her election as the first woman prime minister of the Muslim world demonstrated the leadership potential and capabilities of Pakistani women in all fields. He also acknowledged President Asif Ali Zardari for carrying forward Shaheed Bhutto’s political legacy by strengthening democratic institutions, particularly through the transfer of presidential powers to Parliament to uphold democratic supremacy.
The Chairman Senate said PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari possesses the leadership qualities needed to effectively guide the country’s youth, and highlighted the party’s unmatched sacrifices for democracy, women’s rights and the welfare of the underprivileged.
Concluding his message, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani said the Pakistan Peoples Party takes pride in its leadership and mission, and reaffirmed that the party will continue its journey of public service, democratic values and social justice under all circumstances.
