Bhutto 2010

BHUTTO is an engaging theatrical documentary that delves into the life of one of the most intricate and intriguing figures of our time. This epic narrative unfolds the heroism of a woman battling against traditional norms and terrorism in Pakistan, arguably one of the most perilous places on earth. As a nuclear-armed nation teetering on the edge of instability, Pakistan was uniquely tied to the life of Benazir Bhutto, who hailed from a prosperous family that became the cornerstone of the country’s political dynasty.

Often likened to the “Kennedys of Pakistan,” the Bhutto family shares a legacy steeped in both tragedy and triumph, mirroring that of its American counterpart. The journey of Benazir Bhutto is emblematic of Pakistan itself, entwined with the tumultuous history of her homeland. Pakistan was established in 1947, while Benazir was born six years later, in 1953. The nation emerged during the partition of the Indian subcontinent as a haven for Muslims following the end of British rule. However, internal strife quickly erupted, leading to military conflicts with its larger neighbor, India, and ultimately setting the stage for a military-dominated political landscape.

As the daughter of the visionary political leader Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Benazir was destined for a path laden with challenges from birth. Growing up in a wealthy feudal household in Sindh province, Zulfikar pursued an education abroad, marrying Nusrat Isipani, an Iranian beauty, while at Oxford. Together, they raised their children—Benazir, Murtaza, Sanam, and Shanawaz—with an emphasis on equal education, defying the conventions of gender roles prevalent in their society.

While her father’s political career soared, with stunning oratory at the UN leading him to become the first democratically elected president and later prime minister, Benazir was exploring the world herself. She attended Harvard University amidst the revolutionary fervor of the 1960s, participating in anti-war protests and witnessing the burgeoning women’s movement. After studying at Oxford, she initially envisioned a life of luxury in diplomacy. However, fate intervened dramatically when her father was overthrown in a coup led by General Zia ul Haq, culminating in his wrongful execution on fabricated charges.

In the ensuing chaos, Benazir chose to fight for justice, while her brothers fled to avoid persecution. Alongside her mother, she faced imprisonment under Zia’s oppressive regime, which enforced extreme interpretations of Islam and subjugated women under harsh laws. During this grim period, her brothers were wrongfully branded as terrorists in a politically charged climate.

Tragedy struck again during a family reunion in France when Shanawaz was found dead under dubious circumstances. Grieving yet resolute, Benazir returned to Pakistan to reclaim her father’s legacy, experiencing a wave of national support that catalyzed her political ambitions. In 1988, she stood before millions eager to see her lead, cleverly navigating traditional barriers by entering into an arranged marriage with Asif Ali Zardari, known for his playboy reputation. Soon, while managing her campaign and preparing for motherhood, a crucial turning point occurred as General Zia’s mysterious death cleared her way to power.

At the young age of 35, and with a newborn son in tow, she made history by becoming the first female prime minister of a Muslim nation. However, her term was marred by allegations of corruption, leading to a swift ousting after just twenty months. Even so, her resilience shone through as she continued to strive for a second term, appointing her husband as finance minister—a move that backfired, earning him the infamous moniker of “Mr. 10%.”

As political turbulence escalated, Murtaza Bhutto returned to confront Benazir for control of the Pakistan People’s Party, only to be tragically killed under controversial circumstances. His death was a dagger to her political stature, leading to her second term ending in shame, alongside her husband’s imprisonment.

In exile, she raised her children in Dubai, giving lectures on the growing menace of radical Islamic terrorism. Then came 9/11, shifting the geopolitical landscape and thrusting Pakistan into the foreground of the war on terror, further complicating her homeland’s plight. The increasing turmoil in Pakistan led to her eventual reinstatement in 2007 as a beacon of hope for democracy amid chaos.

Ultimately, Benazir Bhutto’s life was cruelly cut short by assassination, but in death, she emerged as a martyr, leaving behind a controversial legacy that will be examined and discussed for generations to come.