Event pays tribute to Pakistan Army’s bravery
calls for women’s empowerment
youth leadership, and poverty eradication
Staff Reporter
Karachi: A grand public gathering in Malir, led by Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) MPA and Parliamentary Secretary Roma Mushtaq Matto — the first Christian woman to hold the position — celebrated the sacrifices of Pakistan’s martyrs, the bravery of the armed forces, and the values of unity, equality, and democracy.
Roma Mushtaq Matto paid tribute to the heroes of Operation Bunyad-e-Marsous and the Battle of Truth, saying the Pakistan Army, Rangers, Police, and citizens had shed their blood for peace — not only at borders, but in markets, streets, and places of worship. “Because of their courage, we breathe in freedom today. Their sacrifices will be written in golden letters in history,” she said.
She lauded PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari as a symbol of young leadership who has projected Pakistan’s peaceful image globally while safeguarding minority rights, provincial powers, and the welfare of the poor.
Equality and Minority Rights
Matto stressed that Pakistan belongs to all its citizens — Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and Parsis alike — and the national flag’s green and white colors symbolize harmony between majority and minorities. “We are one body; harm to one part affects the whole,” she noted.
Women’s Empowerment
She declared that national progress is impossible without equal opportunities for women in education, employment, and leadership roles, saying, “When mothers, sisters, and daughters advance in every field, Pakistan’s identity will shine globally.”
Youth Leadership and Education
Calling youth the “bright future of Pakistan,” she urged them to avoid drugs, corruption, and hatred, and instead embrace education, skills, and ethics. She emphasized that education is the country’s true strength and appealed for joint efforts to eradicate poverty and create jobs for millions of children still out of school.
Interfaith Harmony and Peace
The MPA underscored that peace can only prevail when every individual respects the beliefs and traditions of others, urging the public to “spread love, end hatred, and honor every religion and sect.”
Other PPP Leaders’ Remarks
MPA Raja Razaq reiterated PPP’s commitment to solving public issues and protecting Pakistan’s sovereignty. MPA Farooq Awan stressed unity as the key to national progress, while Town Chairman Nazeer Bhutto highlighted local development projects including street repairs, school rehabilitation, and public facilities.
National Pledge
The gathering concluded with a pledge to remain united for Pakistan’s security, honor martyrs’ sacrifices, empower youth and women, and confront forces against national integrity. The event ended with chants of “Pakistan Zindabad,” “Pak Army Zindabad,” “Martyrs Live Forever,” and “Long Live National Unity.”
