Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has paid tribute to the martyrs of the Karsaz tragedy, saying their sacrifices strengthened Pakistan’s democratic foundations. In a statement marking October 18, he said the day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for democracy.
The date recalls the day Karachi’s streets came to a standstill to welcome Benazir Bhutto home after an eight-year self-imposed exile, during which she lived in Dubai and London. Two explosions went off in front of the rallying truck from which she was greeting supporters and party members. The blasts occurred about halfway between the airport and the Quaid-e-Azam’s tomb, just after the truck crossed a bridge. Around 180 Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) workers were killed in the attack.
Chief minister calls attack a cowardly act
Murad Ali Shah described the attack on PPP supporters, who had gathered to welcome former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, as a cowardly act. He said the martyrs had written a new chapter of courage and that supporters risked their lives to protect Bhutto despite the deadly explosions.
He added that the sacrifices would not go in vain and that the party remained committed to carrying forward its mission. Murad Ali Shah said the pain of the Karsaz tragedy remained fresh in the hearts of Pakistanis.
Party leaders continue the democratic struggle
The chief minister further stated that President Asif Ali Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari were continuing the democratic struggle that the party’s martyrs had started.
