KARACHI: Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the First Lady of Pakistan and Member of the National Assembly, marked the 18th anniversary of the Karsaz tragedy by reflecting on its significance in Pakistan’s democratic struggle. Speaking about the historic site on Karachi’s Shahrah-e-Faisal, she described it as a blood-stained witness to the resilience and enduring fight for democracy.
She highlighted how democracy was brutally attacked by cowardly forces on that day, yet the spirit and journey toward democratic ideals remained unstoppable.
Recalling October 18, 2007, she spoke about the procession led by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, which started at Karachi Airport and became a pivotal moment in history.
Aseefa emphasized the loyalty of Bhutto’s followers, who shielded their leader at the cost of their own lives during an attack that targeted “the Daughter of the East.”
She recounted how, as the first line of devoted party workers, known as Jiyalas, embraced martyrdom, others immediately stepped forward to protect their leader, resulting in over 180 individuals sacrificing their lives for the cause.
Paying tribute to the martyrs of Karsaz, Aseefa expressed that their sacrifices were not in vain but served to plant seeds of courage that fuel ongoing struggles for democracy.
She reaffirmed her commitment to carry forward their mission until every voice in Pakistan is free and every citizen stands equal, vowing to persist in this journey for justice and democracy.
