Lahore: Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), has declared July 5th a Black Day, marking the anniversary of the 1977 coup that ousted Pakistan’s first elected Prime Minister, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. This day symbolizes a significant historical event that Zardari asserts set the country on a detrimental path characterized by political and social turmoil.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, Chairman Zardari reflected on the impact of the coup, describing it as the beginning of an era marked by extremism, terrorism, and a burgeoning Kalashnikov and drug culture. He lamented the lasting damage done to Pakistan’s democratic fabric and the immense suffering inflicted on the nation’s citizens, particularly pro-democracy advocates.

Zardari emphasized that the oppressive regime led by General Ziaul Haq was notorious for its brutal crackdown on democrats, liberals, and patriots, involving imprisonment, flogging, exile, and execution. He praised the resilience and courage of the PPP’s activists, known as Jiyalas, who, despite facing severe repression, remained steadfast in their fight for democracy.

The PPP Chairman concluded his remarks by renewing a commitment to the democratic values championed by his grandfather, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He called on the nation to honor the legacy of those who suffered and fought valiantly for democracy by continuing to strive for a progressive, just, and democratic Pakistan.