Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has condemned July 5, 1977—the date of Pakistan’s military coup—as the darkest day in the nation’s history, asserting that it “ambushed democracy” and plunged the country into prolonged instability. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Bilawal stated that the dictatorship imposed that day planted seeds of division and hatred, the consequences of which still haunt Pakistan’s political and social fabric.
Bilawal emphasized the need to move beyond “hatred, chaos, and personal rule” and instead uphold democracy, tolerance, and constitutional supremacy. “Only through democratic continuity can Pakistan secure a peaceful future for coming generations,” he said. His remarks were reinforced by PPP Vice President Senator Sherry Rehman, who labeled July 5 a “Black Day”, recalling the overthrow of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s elected government as a betrayal of public trust.
Sherry highlighted that Bhutto’s vision laid the foundation for a dignified, nuclear-armed Pakistan, and his removal derailed the country’s progress. She honored the sacrifices of both Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto, reaffirming PPP’s commitment to democratic ideals under Asif Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah joined in condemning the 1977 martial law, calling it an assault on public will and political consciousness. He warned that conspiracies against democracy persist today and vowed that PPP would resist any attempts to undermine constitutional rule. “Shaheed Bhutto gave his life for democracy—we will carry forward his mission at any cost,” Shah declared. The statements underscore PPP’s resolve to defend democratic principles amid ongoing political challenges.