FROM the last decade, Pakistan has been witnessing violent protests by various political parties, sending a troubling message to the youth of the country. Violent protests and movements do not represent the true spirit of Pakistan. It is important to acknowledge the pioneer of democracy in Pakistan, who wrote the nation’s history through nonviolent movements aimed at the restoration of democracy and the rule of law. This visionary leadership not only brought democracy to the country but also contributed to the creation of a unanimous Constitution.
The successive governments of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) have played a crucial role in bringing mega projects to the country, including the mother of all projects—the nuclear program. Due to the absence of democratic institutions, Pakistan struggled with the concept of democracy and human rights for decades. It took nearly two decades before the people of Pakistan found hope in the form of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto (SZAB). He mobilized the silent majority of Pakistan, urging them to take their fate into their own hands. It was in 1977 that Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto launched a historic nonviolent movement for the restoration of democracy.
Under her leadership, PPP stood firm in its commitment to democracy and the fundamental rights of the people, with a particular focus on women’s rights. Throughout her life, Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto faced attacks from violent non-state actors and terrorists with immense courage, never surrendering to the enemies of Pakistan. She kept the struggle for democracy, human rights, women’s empowerment and non-violence alive in the country.
When Asif Ali Zardari was democratically elected as President of Pakistan in 2008, he ended the politics of revenge and focused on strengthening civilian institutions like the parliament, judiciary and the free press. He signed the 18th Amendment, which empowered the provinces and worked to improve relations with neighboring countries, including India, through increased trade and people-to-people contacts. He also launched programs like the Benazir Income Support Program, providing cash assistance to the poor. This trailblazing history of nonviolent struggle for democracy in Pakistan must be followed by the youth of the nation to help make Pakistan a prosperous and inclusive country. Let us bury the politics of hate, violence and vendetta, and work together to build a brighter future for all.
—The writer is a medical doctor, fitness enthusiast, and passionate about public health and human rights.
