Bhutto’s legacy

The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has long been a proponent of progressive politics, aiming to propel the country forward. On the 27th of December, the nation commemorates the death anniversary of the iconic Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto (SMBB), a symbol of hope for the nation during tumultuous times.

SMBB’s enduring legacy in Pakistan is etched in the hearts of many. She served as the voice for the marginalized, fostering an unparalleled connection with the people. Her commitment to inclusive politics stood as a beacon, transcending the prevalent politics of hate and vengeance that often mark today’s challenging times. Her legacy is now carried forward by her son, Chairperson PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who envisions steering the country in a new direction by burying traditional politics.

Bilawal’s call for a departure from traditional politics and a focus on unity, transparency, and accountability highlights the party’s vision for a more prosperous and harmonious Pakistan. In Bilawal’s vision, politicians should embrace progressiveness and work for the greater good of the country. He advocates for avoiding the transformation of political differences into personal enmities, fostering a more collaborative political landscape. The PPP, under his leadership, emphasizes policies geared towards addressing critical issues, with poverty eradication ranking high on their agenda.

Bilawal is rapidly mastering the intricacies of politics and leadership within the PPP. His brief tenure as foreign minister showcased both capability and temperament, affirming his adeptness in navigating political landscapes. The inherent charisma that has long defined the Bhutto family is vividly mirrored in Bilawal’s persona.

Fortunate to enjoy the patronage of a political maestro known for achieving the seemingly impossible, Bilawal stands poised to carry forward a rich legacy. With over half of Pakistan’s population aged 23 or below, Bilawal recognizes the significance of youth. Understanding the pivotal role of social media in contemporary times, Bilawal has directed the party to innovate its approach, leading to the establishment of the PPP Digital Platform. This platform facilitates social media events, including X-Spaces, setting trends and providing live coverage of the PPP’s leadership speeches across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and others.

In a landscape where digital presence is paramount, Bilawal has strategically positioned the PPP among the top five parties with active engagement on major social networks, including Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube. This concerted effort reflects his commitment to leveraging modern communication channels, ensuring the party remains at the forefront of public discourse and connectivity.

The PPP is set to unveil an extensive economic initiative aimed at uplifting the populace. This comprehensive plan encompasses cash stipends and job assistance for the youth, enhanced support for agricultural workers, an expansion of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), and the introduction of social security measures for workers. Beyond these initiatives, there are additional strategic plans in the pipeline, all designed to address diverse aspects of economic well-being. The multifaceted approach highlights the PPP’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth, providing tangible support to various segments of society. Watch the space for further details on these impactful measures that aim to create a more resilient and prosperous future for the people of Pakistan.

One of the PPP’s standout initiatives is the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), a testament to their unwavering commitment to poverty alleviation. Among its notable achievements, the programme successfully reinstated the accounts of 192,000 beneficiaries that were previously deactivated during the tenure of the preceding government. This effort highlights the party’s dedication to rectifying past shortcomings and prioritizing the well-being of vulnerable populations.

Bilawal rightly asserts that overcoming economic challenges necessitates moving away from old politics. Fresh perspectives and ideas, coupled with unity across all provinces, are imperative for economic revival. The PPP’s emphasis on the importance of independent state institutions, coupled with transparency and accountability, aligns with the party’s vision for progress.

The party’s commitment to upholding the separation of powers guaranteed by the constitution of Pakistan is crucial. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari underscores that progress cannot be achieved by undermining state institutions. Instead, fostering an environment of collaboration and respect for democratic principles is paramount for sustained development.

Furthermore, the PPP denounces the politics of hate and resentment, advocating for a departure from 70 years of victimization. Bilawal emphasizes the need to start afresh, promoting a spirit of unity and cooperation for the national interest. This approach reflects the party’s dedication to fostering a more inclusive and harmonious political landscape.

Under the leadership of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the PPP continues to champion progressive politics. From social welfare programmes like BISP and BMC to international leadership in climate diplomacy, the PPP demonstrates a commitment to addressing the nation’s challenges.

As Pakistan approaches the upcoming elections early next year, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) stands firm in its mandate for the nation’s betterment. With a clear focus on healing and resilience, the PPP emphasizes the necessity of embracing progressive policies and fresh perspectives. Recognizing that the nation can only emerge from challenging times into a brighter, hopeful future through innovative approaches, the party underscores its commitment to the people.

As they gear up for the elections, the PPP remains dedicated to steering Pakistan away from the shadows of the past, envisioning a future marked by progress and prosperity. In their pursuit, the party encapsulates a vision where the well-being of the people takes precedence, setting the stage for a resilient and optimistic trajectory for the nation.

The writer is a former member of the Sindh Assembly.