The provincial government of Sindh, Pakistan, has announced a public holiday on April 4th, 2023, in honor of the 44th martyrdom anniversary of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. According to the notification, all offices, autonomous and semi-autonomous bodies, corporations, and local councils under the administrative control of the provincial government of Sindh, except essential services, will remain closed on this day.
Bhutto, born on January 5, 1928, was a prominent politician and founded the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) on November 30, 1967. However, he was hanged after a controversial trial on April 4, 1979, following the imposition of martial law by General Ziaul Haq, who overthrew Bhutto’s government.
The PPP, now led by Bhutto’s maternal grandson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, has consistently claimed that Bhutto’s execution was a “judicial murder,” stirring controversy and debate in the country’s political landscape.
The public holiday announcement is an indication of the significance of Bhutto’s legacy and his impact on Pakistan’s politics. The decision also highlights the PPP’s continued effort to preserve Bhutto’s memory and his struggle for democracy.
Overall, the public holiday announcement for Bhutto’s martyrdom anniversary prompts us to reflect on his contributions to Pakistan’s political history, the circumstances surrounding his death, and the relevance of his ideals and legacy in today’s world.