Karachi: The First Lady of Pakistan, Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari, commemorated the 19th anniversary of the Karsaz Tragedy with a poignant message that highlighted the enduring impact of the event on the nation's collective memory. Recalling the tragic night when more than 180 people lost their lives in a terrorist attack during a rally for her mother, the late Benazir Bhutto, Asifa Bhutto Zardari called for a renewed commitment to peace and democracy.
According to Pakistan Peoples Party, the First Lady addressed the youth of Pakistan, emphasizing their critical role in shaping the country's future. She urged them to resist the forces of extremism and to embrace dialogue and tolerance over hatred and violence. Her message underscored the importance of education, opportunity, and justice as tools to combat extremism and promote peaceful coexistence.
Reflecting on the sacrifices made by the victims of the Karsaz attack and other acts of terrorism, Asifa Bhutto Zardari stressed that the lessons from these events are now in the hands of the younger generation. She encouraged young Pakistanis to challenge intolerance and reject any glorification of terrorism, highlighting the need for digital spaces to foster understanding rather than division.
In her message, the First Lady also paid tribute to the martyrs of Karsaz and all victims of terrorism in Pakistan, calling for their sacrifices to be honored through actions that promote peace and unity. She reiterated that the nation's diversity should be celebrated as a strength, not exploited as a weakness, and called for a collective effort to build a Pakistan free from the shadow of extremism.