Islamabad: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani addressed a seminar at the Rawalpindi Arts Council, organized by Pakistan Peoples Party Rawalpindi President Mian Khurram Rasool, where he commemorated Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto as a symbol of ideology, democracy, and public consciousness. He noted that April 4 is a significant and painful date in Pakistan’s history, symbolizing the sacrifices made for democracy and citizens’ rights.

According to Press Information Department, Chairman Gilani spoke as the Chief Guest on the 47th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. He emphasized that the 1973 Constitution, a historic achievement of Bhutto, provided a strong foundation for the democratic structure of the country. He highlighted the establishment of the Senate as a reflection of Bhutto’s federal vision, ensuring equal provincial representation and addressing the sense of deprivation among federating units.

Chairman Gilani underscored that the 18th Constitutional Amendment fortified democracy by empowering provinces. He asserted that Bhutto elevated Pakistan’s global stature, provided a national identity, and ensured the right to vote, making the people a true source of power and safeguarding fundamental rights. He also acknowledged Bhutto’s contributions to national defense and employment through landmark achievements such as the nuclear program and Pakistan Steel Mills.

The Chairman Senate praised Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto for advancing Bhutto’s mission and Asif Ali Zardari for transferring powers to Parliament through the 18th Amendment. He described Bilawal Bhutto Zardari as a leader of the youth, highlighting the demographic as a promise for a bright future.

Chairman Gilani affirmed the enduring sacrifices of the Bhutto family for democracy and stressed that the leadership continues to strive for social justice and public welfare. He concluded by congratulating Mian Khurram Rasool for organizing the seminar successfully.

The seminar also featured speeches by former Prime Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, President PPP AJK Chaudhry Yasin, former MD Bait-ul-Mal Amir Fida Paracha, and Advisor to the Chairman Senate Mian Khurram Rasool, along with other party leaders, who paid tribute to Bhutto’s political, social, and public services.