Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in 3D — coming soon

PPP decides to use 3D hologram technology for its chairman's appearances at rallies over security concerns

LAHORE: To minimise security risks, the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) has decided to use 3D hologram technology for its chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's appearances at rallies, The Express Tribune learnt on Tuesday.

The party’s technology experts have successfully tested the 3D hologram system in mock sessions. Bilawal will use the technology to simultaneously address party activists and supporters in different cities of the country next Sunday.

After the assassination of former premier Benazir Bhutto at a public rally in 2007, Bilawal’s security, especially in Punjab, has remained the prime concern for his family and the party.



In his recent public appearances in Lahore and other cities of Punjab, policemen and guards from Sindh were seen accompanying the PPP chief.

They were deployed at the Bilawal House, Lahore and in his cavalcade.

During last year’s PPP foundation day celebrations, several party leaders had indicated that functions at Bilawal House, Lahore were limited over security concerns.

Bilawal himself has also expressed concerns over the Punjab government's arrangements for his security.

Political pundits believe the appearance of "Bhutto" at rallies is necessary for the revival of the PPP in Punjab and other parts of the country.

They say that the PPP's campaign for the 2018 general elections will not make a major difference if Bilawal is not physically present at rallies to interact with the public.



PPP Central Secretary Information Chaudhry Manzoor Ahmad confirmed that the party would use the technology for small public gatherings of 2,500 or 3,000 people.

However, he maintained that the party did not intend to use it for bigger rallies.

"Everywhere in the world, politicians ad business leaders are using such technologies for mass communication," he explained.

"It will help the PPP chairman in disseminating his message more efficiently and effectively," he added.

"With the help of this system, a life-size 3D hologram image of Bilawal can be broadcast right in front of the people."

PPP leader Ali Qasim Gillani said the party was also planning to arrange meetings with media personnel in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad and other cities of the country for a demonstration of its hologram technology.