Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan will ensure his party’s victory in the upcoming June 7 elections.
He expressed confidence that after the polls, a “jiyala Chief Minister” from the PPP will be elected, allowing the party to continue what he called its journey of public service in the region.
Addressing a large public gathering in Gilgit-Baltistan, Bilawal said enthusiasm was visible in PPP election camps across the region.
Bilawal Bhutto claimed that rival parties appeared worried ahead of the elections, while PPP supporters remained energized.
He remarked that one party’s concern could be understood due to its leadership being in jail, while questioning the reasons behind the anxiety of other political forces.
He also alleged that some parties lacked a strong political presence in Gilgit-Baltistan and relied instead on resources and financial influence, which he said would not succeed against public awareness.
Development promises and BISP expansion
The PPP chairman announced that the funds of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) would be further increased in the upcoming federal budget.
He said the move aimed to provide greater relief to poor and deserving families and strengthen social protection programs across the country.
India, water security and national position
During his speech, Bilawal Bhutto also accused India of attempting to use the Indus Waters Treaty as a tool of political pressure.
He described Pakistan as a strong nuclear power capable of safeguarding its national interests and sovereignty.
Bilawal urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to accelerate work on the Diamer-Bhasha Dam, calling for “Shehbaz speed” in completing the project.
He claimed that political instability in earlier years had delayed the dam’s completion, saying it would have already been finished if previous governments had remained uninterrupted.
The PPP chairman credited the party’s leadership for major national projects, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
He said that landmark infrastructure initiatives such as the Orange Line Train were part of the broader development vision initiated during PPP governments.
Call for rights and constitutional status
Bilawal Bhutto reiterated that the PPP would continue to fight for the constitutional and democratic rights of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan under the 18th Constitutional Amendment framework.
He also said that credit for giving identity and recognition to Gilgit-Baltistan went to former President Asif Ali Zardari.
.jpg)
