Services of Benazir... By Humera
26 June, 2012
We pay rich tribute to Benazir Bhutto, the twice-elected prime minister and chairperson of the PPP whose 59th birth anniversary was observed on June 21 in the country. She had dedicated her life to the service of the nation and never bowed before any anti-democratic power. Here is a quote from her last speech: "I put my life in danger and came here because I feel this country is in danger. I want to see a prosperous, progressive and developed Pakistan." These words of Ms Bhutto reflect her vision and dream of Pakistan. Although she is no more among us, her vision is alive. History will always remember her for standing up against dictators. She was the voice of the downtrodden. Among her many achievements for Pakistan are the missile technology for the country, Agosta submarine for the Navy, women banks and women police stations. In addition, the women affairs ministry was formed during her first tenure in 1988. She appointed women judges, as well as thousands of lady health visitors to minimise infant mortality, and started a campaign to make the country polio-free. She expanded Port Qasim, Pakistan Steel Mills and launched the Keti Bunder Project, gave jobs to many unemployed youths, lifted the ban on student and labour organisations, doubled the wages and salaries of employees, gave freedom to the media and raised allocations for education, health, etc. Far from the politics of seeking any revenge, she believed in forgiving and forgetting. Tolerance was the hallmark of her political, moral and religious ethos. Despite knowing the dangers of Pakistan's political disaster, she dared to take the risk and died. She was larger than life and leaves behind a legacy of resistance, courage and hope. People will remember her as an unmatched woman political leader in Pakistan's history. Benazir Bhutto was a mother, a wife, a leader, a daughter, and a sister who sacrificed her life for the cause of democracy so that her children, the children of the country, future generations and all of us can breathe in the fresh air of a democratic life. HUMERA ALWANI, MPA
Thatta
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