Karachi University held a seminar to commemorate the 17th death anniversary of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, organized by the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Chair. The event, held at the university’s Audio-Visual Center, featured discussions by political leaders, academics, and experts, reflecting on Benazir Bhutto’s enduring legacy and her contributions to democracy and equality in Pakistan. Karachi University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi emphasized that while individuals are mortal, their ideas live on and guide future generations.
“Visionary leaders empower people and prepare them for challenges. Benazir Bhutto was one such leader who consistently advocated for democracy, dialogue, and the rule of law despite facing immense hardships,” he said. Dr. Iraqi also highlighted the importance of respecting diverse opinions in politics, urging political leaders to listen and deliberate for better decision-making. Saeed Najmi Alam, Advisor to the Sindh Chief Minister, stressed the importance of student unions in enabling the middle class to engage in politics. “Student union elections are crucial for fostering educated leadership from the middle class.
Benazir Bhutto understood the value of collective efforts and always prioritized the nation over personal interests,” he said. He urged students to evaluate Bhutto’s life and leadership beyond political affiliation, emphasizing her sacrifices for democracy and her ability to unite even her critics for the restoration of democratic principles. Sindh Minister for Women Development, Shahina Sher Ali, highlighted Bhutto’s unwavering commitment to democracy and gender equality. “She endured immense challenges for Pakistan’s future.
Benazir Bhutto showed that women are not just victims or weak, but courageous leaders. Her life remains an inspiration for women worldwide,” she stated. Dr. Shaista Tabassum, Dean of Arts and Social Sciences at Karachi University, described Bhutto as a visionary leader who aspired to restore true democracy in Pakistan. “She believed in systems based on public opinion, which are essential for a nation’s success,” she remarked.
Director of the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Chair, Muhammad Ibrahim Sheikh, reflected on her legacy, describing her as a democratic leader who carried forward the vision of her father, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He highlighted her role as a model for Pakistani women and an example of resilience and determination for people worldwide.
