GARHI KHUDA BAKHSH: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari called for greater devolution of responsibilities to the provinces, including tax collection and public utilities.
Furthermore, he was speaking at the 18th death anniversary of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto at her mausoleum in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh. Benazir Bhutto was assassinated on December 27, 2007, in a gun-and-bomb attack after a public rally in Rawalpindi.
In this regard, the Sindh government declared a public holiday to mark the occasion, while strict security arrangements were put in place in Larkana and surrounding areas.
More than 8,500 police personnel, along with Rangers and other security agencies, were deployed to ensure safety for party leaders and attendees.
In this sense, Bilawal said the PPP viewed national challenges as its own responsibility, stressing that financial constraints faced by the federal government required cooperative solutions.
He argued that instead of reducing provincial authority, the Centre should consider transferring additional responsibilities to the provinces. Moreover, Bilawal said provincial governments could play a more effective role if entrusted with greater authority.
He added that provinces could also manage electricity distribution more efficiently if power supply companies were devolved. “We are ready to take on these responsibilities to help stabilise the economy and address public issues,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bilawal also mentioned his mother’s message of reconciliation, saying it remained relevant amid the country’s current political challenges. He urged political parties to avoid extremism and pursue dialogue, adding that politics of revenge had historically harmed democracy and national unity.
President Asif Ali Zardari, in a message on the occasion, called for unity and reiterated Benazir Bhutto’s belief that “democracy is the best revenge.”
He confirmed his commitment to her vision of a democratic, inclusive, and tolerant Pakistan, highlighting her role as the first woman prime minister of a Muslim country and her consistent struggle for constitutional supremacy and parliamentary authority.
However, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute, describing Benazir Bhutto’s legacy as one of courage, patriotism, and commitment to democratic values.
He confirmed the government’s resolve to promote tolerance, rule of law, and democratic governance.
