Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has paid glowing tribute to former prime minister Benazir Bhutto on her 18th death anniversary.

The former foreign minister issued a message on the 18th death anniversary of Benazir Bhutto, paying tribute to her life and struggle. He said her great sacrifice was a blood-written pledge that democracy in Pakistan would never surrender.

Bhutto-Zardari said: "December 27 was a day of collective mourning, reflection, and renewal of resolve for the nation." He termed Benazir Bhutto as the fearless voice of democracy and a source of hope for the oppressed.

He said she stood as an unbreakable symbol of resistance against dictatorship, extremism, and intolerance, adding that her vision of a peaceful, democratic, and dignified Pakistan remained a guiding light for women and young people.

Bhutto-Zardari said that despite severe challenges during her tenure as prime minister, she promoted pro-people policies, adding that she strengthened Pakistan’s defence and safeguarded national sovereignty.

He said she restored Pakistan’s progressive and dignified identity at the international level, adding that she remained steadfast in the struggle for democracy until her final breath and embraced martyrdom in its cause.

The former foreign minister maintained that the PPP would continue its struggle for social and economic justice, and for the supremacy of the Constitution and Parliament.

President Zardari heaps praise on Benazir Bhutto

President Asif Ali Zardari has lavished his praise on Benazir Bhutto, saying, "She would remind us time and again that true retribution lies in democracy."

The message of Benazir Bhutto brings us closer to one another, the president said.

"The life and sacrifice of Benazir Bhutto are deeply linked to the struggle for democracy. Benazir Bhutto was the first woman Prime Minister of the Muslim world, elected twice by the people," he added.

"Democracy in this country repeatedly faced restrictions, and pathways for women were made more difficult. Benazir Bhutto carried out a determined struggle for the constitution, parliament, and the people’s right to vote," he added.

President Zardari maintained: "The life and sacrifice of Benazir Bhutto are inseparable from Pakistan’s democratic struggle."

"Benazir Bhutto believed in a Pakistan based on inclusion for all," President Zardari added.

He maintained: "Benazir Bhutto spoke for those who had no voice in society. Farmers, labourers, and poor families felt close to her."

"She worked to expand opportunities for employment, education, basic services, and social development for young people. Her courageous stance against extremism remains among her lasting services," he maintained.

"Benazir Bhutto spoke openly against violence and hatred. She stood against sectarianism, hatred, and intolerance. Benazir Bhutto consistently raised her voice for the rights of minorities," he maintained.

"This message urges the strengthening of democratic institutions and joint effort for national progress," he said.

"Benazir Bhutto believed that Pakistan must move in step with a changing world," the president said.

PM praises Benazir Bhutto for steering Pakistan to democratic state

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that today the nation marks the anniversary of the martyrdom of Pakistan’s great daughter and former Prime Minister, Benazir Bhutto.

He said that Benazir Bhutto waged an unmatched struggle for democracy, public rights, and the stability of Pakistan.

The prime minister said that Benazir Bhutto encouraged positive values such as tolerance and harmony within the democratic system.

He said that her promotion of tolerance in the political process remains worthy of praise, adding that Benazir Bhutto’s services for the country and the nation will always be remembered.

PM Shehbaz said that a strong spirit of patriotism stands out in Benazir Bhutto’s political legacy.

The prime minister said that she worked to strengthen the role of women and to protect the rights of minorities.

He said that she took valuable steps towards making Pakistan a peaceful, progressive, and democratic state, adding that her sacrifices and services serve as a guiding light for the nation.

He said that the journey towards tolerance, forbearance, the rule of law, and public welfare in Pakistan will be carried forward.

Mohsin Naqvi pays tribute to Benazir Bhutto

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi pays tribute to the outstanding services of Benazir Bhutto on her martyrdom anniversary

"Benazir Bhutto is the name of an era that will remain alive. The national and political services of Benazir Bhutto for Pakistan will always be remembered," Naqvi said.

He maintained that the personality of Benazir Bhutto stood as a symbol of hope, resilience and unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy.

Naqvi maintained that Benazir Bhutto held complete faith in the power of the people.