Benazir Bhutto : Daughter of East

by Ahmed Makhdoom

Benazeer was really benazeer – a woman extraordinaire, a mother par excellence! She was not just the daughter of one of the most revered and great man in the history of Pakistan, Shaheed Zulfiquar Ali Bhutto, but, much, much and much more she was a daughter of Sindh.

Despite her faults, which every politician do have, she was a sincere, honest, straightforward and dedicated leader – far above those in Pakistan who call themselves ‘leaders.’ She was an intellectual person, well-read, well-nurtured, well-educated and well-versed in almost all aspects of life.

Few years ago, when we had an honour to meet her at her home in London, she was candid and forthwith. I asked her. “Mohtarma, what is your greatest achievement in life.” Without any hesitation, a glow of sunlight on her face, and pride in her voice, she replied: “Motherhood! The greatest achievement, the peak of my successes, the zenith of my existence in this world, is being a mother.”

We salute you, Mohtarma and we pray that all mothers of Jeejal Sindhrree will emulate you. Acho ta Sindh jee seendh sanwaariyuun. Long Live Sindh!