KARACHI: On the 18th death anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Provincial Minister for Auqaf, Religious Affairs, Zakat and Ushr Syed Riaz Hussain Shah Shirazi paid tribute to Shaheed Benazir Bhutto and other martyrs of December 27. The minister said that despite the passage of years, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto still lives in the hearts of the people. Her martyrdom deprived Pakistan of a leader of global stature. He said she was the bright face of Pakistan and her name continues to shine across the world. Syed Riaz Hussain Shah Shirazi stated that her martyrdom caused an irreparable loss to the nation. If she were alive today, the national situation would have been different. He said Shaheed Benazir Bhutto always focused on the uplift of marginalized segments and the protection of human dignity. He added that countries and international institutions acknowledge her democratic struggle and services for human rights. Her political struggle is remembered worldwide in seminars and events, and she remains the only Pakistani woman leader remembered at Oxford University. The minister said she was a strong global voice for the causes of Kashmiris and Palestinians. She stood against forces promoting conflict among civilizations. Her vision was to eliminate poverty and make Pakistan a peaceful and prosperous country. He said that during periods of dictatorship, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto showed courage and resilience, and her role in the restoration of democracy will always be remembered. Paying tribute to the party workers who embraced martyrdom on December 27, he said their devotion to their leader will remain engraved in history. He said the political philosophy of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto continues to guide the nation. Pakistan Peoples Party represents unity of the federation and its manifesto is public service. He concluded that Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has reorganized and energized the party according to his mother’s vision, and his struggle guarantees Pakistan’s progress and prosperity. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025