Tight security arrangements in Garhi Khuda Bukhsh have reportedly contributed to a lower turnout. PHOTO: AFP
Disagreements between two PPP power wielders from Sukkur, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Khursheed Ahmed Shah and Senator Islamuddin Shaikh, have been blamed for the relatively low turnout of PPP supporters.
Uncertainty also surrounded the arrival of jiyalas from Ghotki, as massive caravans carrying the PPP’s traditional red-black-green flag were conspicuous by their absence from the National Highway. Heightened security measures have also been blamed for the low turnout.
A lot of hopes have been pinned on newly appointed Punjab Governor Makhdoom Ahmed Mehmood, and former prime minister Yousuf Raza Gillani, who are expected to pull in a large number of PPP supporters from southern Punjab.
Arrangements complete
Security arrangements in Garhi Khuda Bukhsh and neighbouring Naudero, have been completed. More than 7,000 policemen, Rangers and commandos have been deployed. CCTV cameras have been installed for monitoring the mausoleum, the stage and the massive ground. All vehicles entering Naudero and Garhi Khuda Bukhsh are being greeted by Rangers and sniffer dogs.
Cognizant of the fact that people from all parts of Sindh, as well as many areas from Punjab and the rest of the country, will be descending on Garhi Khuda Bukhsh for at least two days, the district administration has erected numerous tents in the area for out-of-town visitors. Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah said that authorities will provide food, water and refreshments to the visitors. According to estimates, it may cost a person coming to Garhi Khuda Bukhsh from elsewhere in Sindh at least Rs2,500 for lodgings and food.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 27th, 2012.
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Of course they lack enthusiasm. Give PPP another 5 years in power and the same people will be spitting on them.
@Fahad: Entire familty of bhutto is killed, and people still say jiye bhutto.
What a waste of a poor countries resources.
Why exactly was she a great leader? what did she do in real terms as opposed to promising things that will be done? Lets have a fact based discussion here instead of some political posturing and furthering the refined PPP art of martyr creation
I think Sarfraz Memon should turn his tele on to see how many people have "descended" on Garhi Khuda Buksh and whether they are "Sans" or Avec enthusiasm". Faisla zamir ka vote Benazir ka!
She was a daughter of great leader and she was also a great leader may ALLAH rest her soul in peace.
Jiye Bhutto