President Asif Ali Zardari has paid a heartfelt tribute to Begum Nusrat Bhutto on the 15th anniversary of her demise, remembering her as a courageous and compassionate political leader, a symbol of resistance against authoritarianism and, above all, a mother who endured profound personal tragedy but remained steadfast in her principles and values.
“For me, Begum Nusrat Bhutto was more than a great political leader. She was the most kind mother who held her family together through some of the darkest days of our history. She lost the love of her life, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, and her beloved sons, Shahnawaz and Mir Murtaza. Yet, despite her grief, she never surrendered her dignity or her commitment to the people of Pakistan. Her sorrow was personal, but her courage belonged to the people of Pakistan”, said the President.
Addressing the mothers of Pakistan, the President said, “Every mother knows the sacrifices made for her children and the silent burdens carried for their future. Begum Nusrat Bhutto’s life reminds us of the extraordinary strength of a mother’s heart, and how love can endure even the deepest loss.”
The President also paid special attention to the young girls of Pakistan, the mothers and leaders of tomorrow.
“Every young girl should know the story of Begum Nusrat Bhutto. She stood firm when powerful forces sought to silence her but she refused to abandon her convictions. Her daughter, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, carried forward the same legacy and became the first woman Prime Minister of her homeland as well as that of the Muslim world.”
The President said her life offered a lasting message to every daughter of Pakistan: “Never underestimate your strength. Pursue education, think independently, stand up for your dignity and never let any fear frighten your dreams. Your future belongs to you, and you have every right to help shape the future of your country.”
He said that mothers shape generations, while educated and empowered daughters shape the destiny of nations. Honouring Begum Nusrat Bhutto’s memory also means building a Pakistan where every woman is respected, treated equal and every girl has the opportunity to fulfil her full potential.
Remembering her personally, the President said, “Her absence is still felt in our family. Years and decades may pass, but the love, respect and beautiful memories remain fresh. We remember not only what she endured, but the remarkable and towering woman she was.”
The President prayed to Almighty Allah to grant Begum Nusrat Bhutto eternal peace and bless her soul.
“May every mother find strength in her example, and every daughter find the courage to write her own story”, the President concluded.
