Karachi, Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, delivered a stirring address at a workers’ convention in Timergara, Lower Dir, emphasizing the deep-rooted connection between the party and the people of the region. He highlighted the party’s historical achievements and outlined its future commitments.
According to Pakistan People’s Party, Chairman Zardari reflected on the PPP’s longstanding relationship with the people of the region, a bond stretching back three generations. He recounted the support of the region’s elders for Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, which led to significant milestones such as the adoption of an Islamic, democratic federal Constitution and the advancement of farmers’ and laborers’ rights. He also mentioned the people’s support for Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, which enabled her to become the first female prime minister in the Islamic world and to champion democracy and people’s rights for three decades.
Zardari credited the PPP’s victory in the 2008 elections to the people’s support, which resulted in the recognition of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s identity and share. He expressed gratitude for the people’s role in achieving significant milestones like the restoration of the 1973 Constitution, the 18th Amendment, the NFC Award, and the establishment of the Benazir Income Support Programme.
He further discussed the PPP’s efforts under President Zardari to expand public services, particularly through the foundation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He stressed that the PPP would ensure the benefits of CPEC reach the people of Dir, despite alleged attempts to divert them.
Chairman Zardari criticized the current political landscape dominated by personal vendettas and traditional politics of hatred and division. He differentiated the PPP’s approach, focusing solely on the welfare of the people and not engaging in political revenge. He underscored the need to abandon the politics of hate to unite for the country’s betterment.
Zardari criticized the previous administrations, particularly referencing the politics of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan. He emphasized that the PPP’s focus remains on addressing issues of poverty, unemployment, and inflation, rather than political rivalries.
He reiterated the PPP’s commitment to fulfilling Quaid-e-Awam’s promise of ‘Roti, Kapra Aur Makaan’ and the dream of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, particularly focusing on women’s empowerment and youth education and employment. He cited the establishment of healthcare institutions in Sindh as a model for potential development in Lower Dir.
Zardari criticized the caretaker government’s alleged partiality towards certain political parties and expressed concern over Nawaz Sharif’s reported intentions to purchase PIA. He assured the people that the PPP would oppose such moves and support union rights.
In conclusion, Chairman Zardari placed his trust in the people’s choice for the country’s future, stressing the importance of democracy over ‘selections’. He challenged his political counterparts to win power through elections rather than selections and reaffirmed the PPP’s commitment to its principles and manifesto.