ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto for her struggle for democracy, constitutionalism and the rights of the people. In a message issued on the occasion of her death anniversary, the Prime Minister said Benazir Bhutto was the “pride of Pakistan”, whose life and politics were defined by an unwavering commitment to democratic values and the stability of the federation. He said Benazir Bhutto played a historic role in promoting tolerance, harmony and democratic norms in the country. “She encouraged positive values such as political tolerance and reconciliation, which remain essential for a strong democratic system,” he said, adding that her approach to politics set a lasting example. Highlighting her contributions, the Prime Minister said the nation would always remember Benazir Bhutto’s services to the country, describing patriotism as a defining feature of her political legacy. The statement said Benazir Bhutto took significant steps to strengthen the role of women, safeguard the rights of minorities and steer Pakistan towards becoming a peaceful, progressive and democratic state. “Her sacrifices and services are a guiding light for the nation,” the prime minister said. Reaffirming the government’s commitment, he said that on this day the nation renewed its resolve to carry forward the journey of tolerance, forbearance, rule of law and public welfare - ideals for which Benazir Bhutto laid down her life. He concluded with prayers to Almighty to grant her soul the highest rank in heaven. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025 Pakistan PPP arranges ceremony to mark BB’s death anniversary RECORDER REPORT LAHORE: The Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) Lahore organized a prayer ceremony at its Model Town office Saturday on the occasion of 18th death anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto where party leaders and workers paid rich tributes to the former prime minister. The Quran recitation and Fateha Khwani were attended by Member of the National Assembly and President Women Wing PPP Punjab Samina Khalid Ghurki, PPP Central Punjab Information Secretary Shehzad Saeed Cheema, Rana Jameel Manj, Ashraf Khan, Faiza Malik, along with other party leaders and workers. Addressing the gathering, MNA Samina Khalid Ghurki said it was an honour for her to have worked alongside Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto. She said that changing political circumstances have altered ground realities, and party workers must understand this, strengthen mutual coordination, and move forward together. She termed Benazir Bhutto’s martyrdom a great loss for Pakistan and stressed the need for unity and consensus in the current situation. PPP Central Punjab Information Secretary Shehzad Saeed Cheema said that December 27 is a day of grief and pain for party workers. He said that loyal supporters must fulfil their commitment to the Pakistan Peoples’ Party. He added that the PPP has been repeatedly targeted in every era and continues to face challenges, stating that in Pakistan, the real political contest has always been between the PPP and the establishment. Other speakers said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto earned her place in politics and on the global stage through hard work and courage. They said the party’s struggle today is for the rights of the poor and marginalized segments of society. The speakers added that the PPP has not ended but is merely dormant and needs to be re-energized. They also appealed to PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to maintain direct contact with party workers through email. At the end of the ceremony, candles were lit in memory of the martyrs. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025