ZAB's 47th death anniversary observed nationwide

PM Shehbaz, President Zardari call for rule of law as tributes pour in; PPP honours founder’s legacy

The 47th death anniversary of former prime minister and founding chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, is being observed across the country on Saturday.

Leaders are paying tribute to his political legacy and contributions to Pakistan’s constitutional and democratic development.

President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message, called for upholding justice and institutional integrity, saying, “Institutions must uphold the rule of law, protect due process and ensure that justice is administered fairly and without prejudice”.

State broadcaster Radio Pakistan posted on X about Zardari's message.

President @AAliZardari in his message on death anniversary of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto has emphasized that institutions must uphold the rule of law and ensure dispensation of justice without prejudice@PresOfPakistan #RadioPakistan #News https://t.co/bOgaXKMM71 pic.twitter.com/UHq2mIwacx

— Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) April 4, 2026

Recalling Bhutto’s leadership, he said, “Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s leadership during a difficult period after 1971 helped restore national confidence and chart a new constitutional course for the country,” adding that “the Constitution of 1973, which continues to guide our parliamentary system, remains one of the most enduring achievements of that period”.

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Referring to the circumstances surrounding Bhutto’s execution, the president noted that he was put to death on April 4, 1979, following a trial conducted during the martial law regime of Zia-ul-Haq.

He pointed to the Supreme Court’s March 2024 opinion, which held that Bhutto had not been afforded a fair trial, observing that legal proceedings had “destroyed any semblance of due process and fair trial”.

“Nearly half a century after his execution, the Supreme Court held that he had not been given due process,” the president said, stressing that the episode remains a critical lesson in the importance of justice and institutional responsibility.

He also paid tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, noting that she carried forward the democratic struggle “during years marked by political repression, imprisonment and exile,” and ultimately sacrificed her life for democratic ideals.

Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on his death anniversary, lauding his national, political and constitutional services. He said Bhutto rendered “valuable services with sincerity” for Pakistan’s development, prosperity and strong defence during his tenure as prime minister.

Highlighting his constitutional contributions, the premier said Bhutto played a “constructive role” in the formulation and adoption of the 1973 Constitution, which continues to hold a central place in strengthening the parliamentary system and promoting democracy in the country.

He added that Bhutto made significant efforts to advance democratic governance, address the fundamental issues of the people and effectively represent Pakistan on the global stage. The prime minister prayed for the elevation of Bhutto’s ranks, stating that his political services would always be remembered.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah paid tribute to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, saying his visionary leadership, independent foreign policy and pro-people approach continue to shape Pakistan’s direction.

Sindh Chief Minister @MuradAliShahPPP paid a rich tribute to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, stating that his visionary leadership, independent foreign policy and commitment to empowering the common man continue to shape Pakistan’s direction even today. pic.twitter.com/HO9sdCvPeS

— Sindh Chief Minister House (@SindhCMHouse) April 3, 2026

Read More: Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto: architect of modern Pakistan

Separately, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon described Bhutto as a defining figure in Pakistan’s political history. “Martyr Zulfikar Ali Bhutto symbolised an era, an ideology, and the struggle for the rights of the people,” he said.

He added that Bhutto “instilled political awareness among the people of Pakistan and gave them a sense of democratic governance and sovereignty,” while also providing the country with a unanimous Constitution and laying the foundation of its nuclear programme.

Memon further said that Benazir Bhutto, following in her father’s footsteps, contributed to the development of missile technology, adding that Pakistan’s strong defence today reflects the efforts of both leaders.

“Bhutto’s political thought and philosophy continue to serve as a guiding light for the leadership and workers of the Pakistan Peoples Party,” he said, reaffirming that under the leadership of President Zardari and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the party remains committed to carrying forward his mission.

PPP central spokesperson Shazia Marri paid tribute to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on his death anniversary, saying April 4 reminds the nation of his struggle and sacrifices.

She said Bhutto provided Pakistan with a Constitution and a democratic path, adding that the 1973 Constitution remains the foundation of the country’s parliamentary system and stands as his historic achievement.

Marri said Bhutto made Pakistan a nuclear power and played a key role in uniting the Muslim world. She added that he brought politics from drawing rooms to the public and gave political awareness to ordinary citizens.

She further said the slogan “roti, kapra aur makaan” (bread, clothing and shelter) was Bhutto’s vision and remains relevant today.

She said the protection of democracy, the Constitution and public rights was Bhutto’s mission, adding that Benazir Bhutto carried forward the struggle against dictatorship, and her sacrifice symbolises the strengthening of democracy.

She added that the rule of law and constitutional continuity are essential for a strong Pakistan, and that Bhutto’s vision continues to live in the hearts of the people. She said the PPP would continue its struggle for democracy and public rights.

Meanwhile, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar also paid tribute to Bhutto, describing him as a symbol of public awareness, dignity and democracy.

Lanjar said Bhutto secured a dignified and sovereign position for Pakistan in the international community and that his vision still offers solutions to the country’s current challenges.

He said Bhutto gave a voice and strength to the underprivileged and set a bright example of struggle for democracy, the Constitution and public supremacy.

Lanjar added that the nation continues to draw guidance from Bhutto’s vision, courage and leadership, noting that he shaped Pakistan’s foreign policy along independent and dignified lines.

He said Bhutto inspired youth with political awareness and confidence, adding that his sacrifice remains an enduring chapter in history. He further said Bhutto made the people the true source of power and that his philosophy continues to underpin Pakistan’s development.

Also Read: PPP will continue to follow Bhutto’s ideology: Zardari

Born on January 5, 1928, in Larkana, Bhutto received higher education in the United States and at Oxford. He founded the PPP in 1967, which soon emerged as a major political force in the country. He served as president from 1971 to 1973 and later as prime minister until 1977.

During his tenure, he introduced the 1973 Constitution, initiated Pakistan’s nuclear programme and strengthened the country’s position on the global stage. Following the imposition of martial law in 1977, Bhutto was removed from office, tried in a murder case and subsequently executed in Rawalpindi.

The Sindh government declared a public holiday on the occasion, while commemorative events and gatherings were held across the country in a subdued manner in line with austerity measures. PPP workers and supporters paid homage to Bhutto, as well as to Benazir Bhutto and other party leaders, reaffirming their commitment to the party’s founding ideals.