BY: Sumblina Hassan
Former Secretary to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto
In Charge of Office 10 UK, RCC Bilawal Bhutto
(Published by: ANI News Agency)
The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has remained one of Pakistan’s most influential political parties since its founding in 1967 by Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Since its inception, the party has championed democracy, constitutional supremacy, social justice, and equal opportunities for all citizens. Throughout its political journey, the PPP has played a significant role in shaping Pakistan’s democratic landscape while consistently advocating democratic governance, public welfare, and the protection of fundamental rights.
Following the martyrdom of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto in 2007, the party entered a new phase under the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. During this period, the PPP has continued to emphasise the strengthening of democratic institutions, political dialogue, youth engagement, women’s empowerment, climate resilience, quality education, accessible healthcare, and sustainable economic development.
Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was not only an internationally respected democratic leader but also a passionate advocate of responsible journalism and freedom of expression. Before assuming the mantle of political leadership, she worked as a journalist and fully appreciated the indispensable role of a free and responsible press in safeguarding democracy. She believed that journalists were essential partners in informing the public, promoting transparency, and strengthening democratic institutions.
During my time serving as her Secretary, she encouraged me to report not only on her own public engagements and initiatives but also on the activities of the Pakistan Peoples Party. She understood that accurate, balanced, and factual reporting was fundamental to maintaining public confidence and preserving democratic accountability.
Benazir Bhutto firmly believed in the enduring power of the written word. The timeless principle that “the pen is mightier than the sword” reflects the ability of truth, knowledge, and reason to inspire change more effectively than force. The significance of the pen is also highlighted in the Holy Qur’an, where Allah Almighty swears by the pen and what it records, emphasising the value of knowledge, learning, and truthful testimony. This serves as a lasting reminder of the noble responsibility entrusted to those who write and report the truth.
Among the party’s most recognised achievements is the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), which has provided financial assistance to millions of deserving families across Pakistan. The PPP also regards the 18th Constitutional Amendment as a historic milestone that strengthened provincial autonomy, reinforced Pakistan’s federal structure, and enhanced democratic governance.
At a time when Pakistan faces complex economic, social, and governance challenges, the PPP maintains that political stability, constitutional continuity, and national unity remain essential for achieving long-term national progress. The party continues to participate actively in parliamentary politics while advocating that political differences should be resolved through democratic dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to the Constitution.
Equally vital to a healthy democracy is the presence of a responsible, professional, and independent media. A free press serves as a bridge between the government, political parties, state institutions, and the public by promoting transparency, accountability, and informed public discourse. Constructive journalism enables citizens to better understand national issues, encourages civic participation, and strengthens democratic institutions.
Journalists often perform their duties under difficult and, at times, extremely dangerous circumstances. In Pakistan, many media professionals have risked—and in some cases sacrificed—their lives in pursuit of truth and the public’s right to know. Their work carries immense responsibility, not only in holding institutions and those in authority accountable, but also in ensuring that citizens receive accurate, balanced, and reliable information. Their dedication deserves recognition and respect, as responsible journalism remains one of the strongest pillars of any democratic society.
In this regard, the Daily Financial Times has established itself as an informative and influential newspaper committed to credible journalism, balanced reporting, and informed analysis. Through comprehensive coverage of politics, business, diplomacy, economic affairs, public policy, education, healthcare, and social development, the newspaper contributes to enhancing public awareness and encouraging meaningful national dialogue.
Beyond daily news reporting, the Daily Financial Times provides an important platform for opinion writers, researchers, policymakers, diplomats, academics, and political leaders to present diverse perspectives on issues affecting Pakistan. By highlighting development initiatives, economic opportunities, and public concerns, the newspaper seeks to support informed decision-making and constructive engagement among all stakeholders.
The newspaper actively promotes responsible journalism by encouraging fact-based reporting, editorial integrity, ethical media practices, and the highest professional standards. Its commitment to balanced coverage enables readers to better understand political developments and the policies and activities of all democratic political parties while upholding the principles of fairness, impartiality, and service to the public interest. The Daily Financial Times continues to deliver a powerful message in support of democratic values and remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the integrity, stability, and success of the nation are never undermined.
As Pakistan continues its democratic journey, the combined efforts of responsible political leadership, active public participation, and independent journalism will remain essential in building a peaceful, prosperous, and progressive nation. Political parties such as the Pakistan Peoples Party and professional media institutions such as the Daily Financial Times have distinct yet complementary roles in strengthening democratic values, promoting informed public debate, defending constitutional principles, and contributing to Pakistan’s national development.
