The political and democratic journey of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), which began on November 30, 1967, is marked by 57 years of unwavering struggle for the supremacy of democracy. During this journey, sacrifices made by PPP’s leadership and workers stand unparalleled. Despite attempts to eliminate party’s leadership through unnatural means on two occasions, PPP was neither derailed from the democratic path nor deterred in its resolve. Over this more then half century long struggle, both the leadership and workers of PPP have exhibited extraordinary resilience and commitment. The sacrifices made by its workers, in addition to those by its leadership, are a testament to this resilience. Imprisonments, lashes, exiles, and executions could not deter the leadership or its workers from their democratic and public struggle.

If we review PPP’s history, party spent most of these 57 years in opposition. Whether it was Ayub Khan’s dictatorship, Zia-ul-Haq’s martial law, or Pervez Musharraf’s non democratic rule, PPP remained at the forefront of struggle against authoritarian regimes. PPP faced unimaginable oppression and tyranny during these dark times. No other political party in Pakistan’s history can match with PPP’s struggle and sacrifices. PPP emerged stronger from these turbulent times, which is why it continues to thrive across Pakistan, serving as a formidable obstacle to authoritarian and undemocratic forces.

Despite challenges and adverse conditions, PPP has won general elections five times with public support and formed governments at federal level. However, despite these victories, PPP has only been allowed to govern for 14 to 15 years instead of the constitutionally mandated 25 years. Each time PPP came to power, Pakistan was grappling with major crises, but PPP led governments worked tirelessly to lead the country out of these challenges and drive progress.

When PPP first came to power after 1970 elections, country had just emerged from over a decade of dictatorship. The country had been divided, with 90,000 prisoners of war and a significant portion of territory under enemy control. National morale was low, and drafting a new constitution was a pressing task. In these circumstances, PPP’s founding Chairman, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, took the helm. Despite differing opinions on Bhutto’s politics, he was the leader who managed to recover 90,000 prisoners of war and lost territory from the enemy without conceding anything substantial. He focused on strengthening national defense, laid the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear program in the face of threats from global powers, and made the country’s defense impregnable. The nuclear program, a cornerstone of Pakistan’s security today, was initiated by PPP. Major industrial projects such as Heavy Mechanical Complex (Taxila), Heavy Electrical Complex (Hasan Abdal), Pakistan Steel Mills, and Utility Stores were also established. PPP introduced the national identity card and facilitated passport acquisition for the public. It opened avenues for overseas employment, which became a major source of foreign exchange for the country. However, this progress came at a cost. Bhutto’s government was overthrown, and he was executed under a controversial judicial decision. A dark era of dictatorship ensued, the repercussions of which the nation continues to bear.

After the end of Zia-ul-Haq’s eleven year dictatorship, PPP returned to power, with Benazir Bhutto becoming the Prime Minister. Despite her electoral victory, the establishment limited PPP’s success by forming alliances like Islami Jamhoori Ittehad (IJI) to undermine her government. During her first term, PPP launched Peoples Works Program, which faced significant opposition in Punjab, led by Nawaz Sharif. The establishment openly supported opposition efforts in tying the hands of Benazir’s government. Despite these challenges, she initiated democratic and social reforms, particularly in advancing the rights of women and marginalized communities. However, her first government lasted only 20 months before being dismissed by President Ghulam Ishaq Khan.

In 1993, PPP once again formed the government after a resounding electoral victory, and Benazir Bhutto became Prime Minister for the second time. Despite having a majority in Punjab, Chief Minister’s position was handed over to Manzoor Wattoo of Junojo League, which had only 18 members. During this three year tenure, PPP expanded access to electricity and gas across rural areas and launched successful programs like Lady Health Workers initiative for maternal and child health. The government strengthened national defense through a missile program and tackled the persistent issue of electricity shortages by installing power plants. When the government was dismissed in 1996, Pakistan had an electricity surplus and even discussed exporting power. The groundwork for the Thar Coal Project was also laid during this time, though it was shelved by subsequent governments. Benazir Bhutto’s second government ended when President Farooq Leghari, backed by the establishment, dismissed it.

After Benazir Bhutto’s tragic assassination in election rally in Dec 2007, PPP formed federal government again in 2008 after winning elections. The country was then gripped by severe terrorism, with daily suicide bombings, and militants controlled Swat and Waziristan. The economy was in dire straits, with growth rate at nearly 1% and the current account deficit at historic highs. Despite these challenges, PPP restored the constitution through the 18th amendment, transferring powers back to the Prime Minister, devolving authority to provinces, and achieving a consensus NFC Award. Military operation in Swat was launched under PPP’s leadership, despite opposition from Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan. This operation displaced 3 million people, who were successfully rehabilitated after peace was restored.

PPP also initiated transformative projects like Benazir Income Support Program to support the underprivileged. Through the 18th amendment, provinces gained power to generate electricity, allowing Sindh government to revive Thar Coal Project. Today, this project contributes nearly 3,000 MW of affordable electricity to the national grid, with more to come in the future. In the health sector, PPP led Sindh government established state of the art NICVD hospitals offering free heart treatment, including open-heart surgeries, attracting patients from across the country. Other initiatives include the Gambat Institute for organ transplants and cutting edge cancer treatment with CyberKnife technology.

Over five decades, much has changed for PPP. Leadership has transitioned to third generation, and party’s supporters now include the third generation of “jiyalas.” Yet, what remains unchanged is PPP’s ideology and its unwavering commitment to the oppressed and marginalized. Similarly, the establishment’s opposition to PPP persists, as party continues to stand as a formidable barrier against authoritarian ambitions.

Dated: 30-11-2024

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