Islamabad: People from various walks of life paid rich tributes on Friday to former two-time Pakistan prime minister Benazir Bhutto on social media platforms on her 17th death anniversary.
She lost her life to an assassin’s bullet in Rawalpindi on December 27, 2007, where dozens of her supporters were killed in subsequent suicide blasts.
The former premier was leaving after addressing a public rally when she was targeted.
Tributes on X
Netizens lauded the slain leader for her struggle for democracy and human rights.
“#BenazirBhuttoShaheed was young, charismatic, and well-educated when she began her political career. Benazir is still a symbol of women’s empowerment and resilience today,” wrote one user.
#BenazirBhuttoShaheed was young, charismatic, and well-educated when she began her political career. She was a powerful woman who stood against a ruthless dictator who unjustly hanged her father. Benazir is still a symbol of women’s empowerment and resilience today. pic.twitter.com/hA2uMc1CD3
— Imrana Imdad (Baloch) (@ImranaImdad) December 27, 2024
Another user said “Though she may be gone, her memory remains, a shining star that continues to guide us through life’s challenges. Her leadership, her wisdom, and her commitment to the underprivileged people of Pakistan have left an indelible mark on our hearts”.
https://x.com/AqrabaFatima/status/1872532762432839857
Other than social media users, her party and family members also took to X (formerly twitter) to cherish her legacy.
Familial tributes
Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Benazir’s daughter and National Assembly member said, “Another year without you, and the ache never fades. Your laughter, love, and courage are missed beyond words. But your dreams for a just, democratic #Pakistan live on in every heart you touched.
Though she may be gone, her memory remains, a shining star that continues to guide us through life's challenges. Her leadership, her wisdom, and her commitment to the underprivileged people of Pakistan have left an indelible mark on our hearts. Her legacy will continue to inspire…
— Syeda Aqraba Fatima (@AqrabaFatima) December 27, 2024
Pakistan Peoples Party Women’s Wing President and Member of Sindh Assembly Faryal Talpur stated that the slain leader’s “unwavering struggle for democracy, human rights, and social justice continue to serve as a guiding light for the Pakistan Peoples Party and the nation.”
President Pakistan Peoples Party Women’s Wing and Member of Sindh Assembly @FaryalTalpurPk's message on the 17th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.
Read More: https://t.co/p4nbnFGYQk pic.twitter.com/OcZU99o11l
— PPP (@MediaCellPPP) December 26, 2024
Meanwhile, Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani lauded her as a towering leader of the Muslim world, the “Daughter of the East,” and a steadfast symbol of democracy.
In a special message marking her 17th death anniversary, Gillani said, “Today, we honour the legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who set a new benchmark for democracy, equality, and human rights, not only in Pakistan but across the globe.”
He praised her dedication to democratic values, stating, “Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s political struggle and principled leadership will forever remain a guiding light for the people of Pakistan. By sacrificing her life, she reaffirmed the belief that democracy is the only path to progress.”
At BB’s mausoleum
Thousands of party workers and leaders converged at Garhi Khuda Bakhsh – Benazir’s resting place in the southern province of Sindh – to observe her death anniversary.
