Bhutto, the film

LAHORE: This is with reference to the article “Emotional Scenes at the screening of Bhutto” (17 June). I watched this film and I want to clarify some misconceptions about it. It’s not a fabricated movie. Narrating the story of Bhutto’s life through several interviews and previously unseen footage, it shows the way courageous young Bhutto fought Gen Ziaul Haq’s brutal regime, braved prison, and resiliently defied the establishment’s attempts to destroy her party. Watching the documentary was an eye-opening experience. Along with most Pakistanis, I’ve always blamed politicians for all of the country’s problems without realising that dictators aren’t taken to task the way the politicians are. It’s the politicians who undergo media trials, exile, face the gallows and assassins’ bullets. Despite her failings, Bhutto was a symbol of democracy, modernity and hope for me. It ought to be underscored that even in death, she showed extraordinary defiance and courage.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 19^th, 2010.