Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has approached the Supreme Court to request live streaming of proceedings regarding the revisiting of the controversial death sentence awarded to his grandfather, former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. The high-stakes hearing, scheduled for tomorrow (Dec 12), will be presided over by a nine-member larger bench, with Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa at the helm. Bilawal, through his lawyer Farooq H. Naek, filed a petition urging that the proceedings be aired live to ensure the entire nation has access to the case unfolding before the judiciary.
The reference in question was initially filed by former President Asif Ali Zardari on April 2, 2011, seeking an opinion on revisiting the death sentence meted out to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto under the Supreme Court’s advisory jurisdiction. Bilawal’s plea underscores the familial connection to the case, describing Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as the founder of the PPP and a revered leader known for his dedication to justice and the welfare of the people. The petition delves into the historical significance of Bhutto’s ideology, encapsulated in his famous motto of ‘roti, kappa, and makan’ (bread, clothing, and shelter), emphasizing his commitment to ensuring fair treatment for every individual.
The petition paints a poignant picture of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s legacy, portraying him as a leader who emerged from the masses, worked tirelessly for their betterment, and ultimately sacrificed his life for their cause. It laments the perceived injustice in Bhutto’s trial and execution, describing it as the “greatest miscarriage of justice” in the country’s history. Bilawal contends that revisiting this dark chapter in Pakistan’s past is essential not only for the Bhutto family but also to cleanse the stain on the entire judicial system.
Expressing his bare minimum expectation from the Supreme Court, Bilawal, in a statement to the media, called for the exposure of all individuals involved in the “crime.” While acknowledging that those who have passed away cannot be brought back, he expressed hope for justice to correct the historical record. The plea, therefore, requests permission for the live broadcast of the reference’s hearing, emphasizing the importance of transparency for the benefit of the entire nation.
In a separate statement, PPP Senator Raza Rabbani framed the upcoming hearing as an opportunity to correct a historic wrong, alleging a conspiracy involving Pakistan’s ruling elite, internal reactionaries, and international imperialist powers in the “judicial murder” of Shaheed Bhutto. Rabbani highlighted the broader context of Bhutto’s trial, linking it to several societal and political developments of the time.
As the legal battle unfolds, Bilawal’s call for live streaming seeks to engage the public and create awareness around a case that holds immense historical significance. The nation watches with anticipation as the Supreme Court takes on the responsibility of revisiting a chapter in Pakistan’s history that continues to evoke emotions and demands for justice.