Garhi Khuda Bakhsh—Addressing a large gathering on the 17th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari made a powerful call for unity against what he termed as foreign conspiracies targeting Pakistan’s nuclear program. His speech also contained a sharp critique of political manipulation and interference in the country’s democratic processes.

In a key moment, Bilawal remarked, “We are neither selected nor Form-47 ones,” a pointed statement aimed at distinguishing his party’s democratic legitimacy from political rivals often accused of benefiting from engineered elections. This comment underlined his broader message advocating for transparency and independence in Pakistan’s political system.

Foreign Interference and Nuclear Threats

Bilawal expressed grave concerns over recent statements by U.S. lawmakers regarding Pakistan’s internal politics, linking them to an alleged agenda against the country’s nuclear program. He asserted, “PTI founder is just an excuse; their real target is Pakistan’s nuclear and missile program.” The PPP Chairman criticized foreign interference, emphasizing that the nuclear program—established under the leadership of his grandfather, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto—was a source of national pride and sovereignty.

“The statements from international powers are not about democracy. They are part of a broader conspiracy to undermine Pakistan’s strategic capabilities,” he warned. Referring to recent U.S. sanctions on entities related to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, Bilawal termed these actions as a direct attack on Pakistan’s sovereignty and a challenge to its regional stability.

Criticism of PML-N Government

Bilawal also took aim at the PML-N-led federal government, stating that it lacked the mandate to make unilateral decisions about the country’s defense and strategic assets. “Decisions of national importance, particularly regarding our nuclear program, must be made with consensus, not in isolation,” he asserted.

The PPP Chairman’s remarks seemed to reflect a broader critique of what he described as weak leadership, which he argued was vulnerable to external pressures. He also called on the PTI and its founder to clarify their position regarding recent international statements, urging them to condemn any foreign interference in Pakistan’s internal affairs.

Tributes to Benazir Bhutto

During the gathering, Bilawal paid homage to his mother, Benazir Bhutto, describing her as a champion of democracy and a representative of Pakistan’s most vulnerable segments. “Her 30-year political struggle is part of history. She never compromised on her ideology and stood firm against all odds,” he said.

The event, held in the family’s ancestral village of Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, was attended by PPP leaders and supporters from across the country. The venue was adorned with party flags and portraits of Benazir and other prominent leaders.

Asif Ali Zardari’s Address

Former President Asif Ali Zardari also addressed the gathering, assuring the people of Sindh that their rights to water and gas would not be compromised, despite federal government projects involving the Indus River. He reiterated the PPP’s commitment to protecting provincial rights and criticized what he called “anti-Pakistan elements” attempting to destabilize the country.

“We reversed the verdict of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s case after 43 years. It will always remain a judicial murder,” Zardari said, promising continued efforts to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and democratic legacy.

Unity as a Defence Against Conspiracies

In closing, Bilawal urged all political forces to set aside their differences for the greater good of the nation. “An international conspiracy is being hatched against Pakistan. Only unity and political stability can help us counter these nefarious designs,” he concluded.

This call for unity comes amid heightened tensions in Pakistan’s political landscape, with ongoing debates over the legitimacy of leadership and concerns over foreign interference.