The call to “surprise them all on Feb 8” resonates as a powerful rallying cry for the people to exercise their voting power. By doing so, Bhutto Zardari believes that the citizens can reshape the political landscape and prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a few. This message serves as a reminder that democracy thrives when citizens actively engage and hold

leaders accountable through the ballot box. One of the key points in Bhutto-Zardari’s speech was his plea for the citizens to actively shape the future of Pakistan. He emphasized the significance of voting and urged the people not to entrust the fate of the country to leaders who may not fully understand or address their problems. This call to action is a poignant reminder that real change can only occur when the citizens actively participate in the democratic process. Bhutto-Zardari emphasized the need to move beyond the politics of division and ego that have plagued Pakistan for decades. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the people of Balochistan, addressing the sensitive issue of missing persons and expressing

solidarity with the Hazara community in Quetta, which had resorted to protesting with the bodies of their loved ones. The PPP leader criticized the past prime minister for dismissing the grievances of the Hazara community as blackmail, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing the concerns of marginalized groups. In a thinly veiled reference to Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan, Bhutto-Zardari critiqued the potential return of leaders who have already held power multiple times. He cautioned against allowing history to repeat itself, suggesting that a new generation of leaders is needed to address the evolving challenges faced by Pakistan. Bhutto-Zardari clarified that his criticism was not based on the

age of these leaders but on their political approach, challenging the idea that one can adopt a new political style regardless of age. Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s speech marks a pivotal moment in Pakistani politics, urging the people to transcend divisive politics and take control of their country’s future. Whether his call for a new era and a new style of politics translates into tangible change remains to be seen, but his words have undoubtedly sparked a conversation about the role of the citizens in shaping the destiny of Pakistan. The upcoming elections on Feb 8 will be a litmus test for the nation’s commitment to embracing a more inclusive and progressive political landscape. In a compelling speech delivered to the Balochistan High Court Bar Association in Quetta, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari urged the people of Pakistan to take charge of their country’s destiny through the power of the vote. His call for citizens to unite for a new era and a fresh style of politics reflects a growing sentiment for change and a departure from the divisive politics of the past. Apologizing for past excesses during his father’s presidency, Bhutto-Zardari recognized the historical grievances of Balochistan and underscored the need to work collectively for the country’s development. He advocated for leaving behind old ways of thinking and embracing a new vision for Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of progress and inclusivity.