Bazal Ali Naqvi Tables Resolution to Name Islamabad Airport After Benazir Bhutto; AJK Assembly Approves

 

Muzaffarabad/Islamabad-(Mudassar Iqbal)-In a significant development reflecting deep reverence for Pakistan’s first female Prime Minister, the Legislative Assembly of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Monday unanimously passed a resolution urging the federal government to name the New Islamabad International Airport after Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.

The resolution was presented in the House by Syed Bazal Ali Naqvi, AJK’s Minister for Social Welfare and Women Development, and received full support from all parliamentary parties, transcending political divides in a rare show of unity.

 

A Tribute to the Legacy of Benazir Bhutto,

The resolution, formally adopted during the Assembly’s session in Muzaffarabad, praised Benazir Bhutto’s historic contributions to Pakistan’s political, democratic, and national security architecture. The House stated that:

“This House demands that the New Islamabad International Airport be named after former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Ms. Benazir Bhutto Shaheed in recognition of her unprecedented services to the country both at national and international level.”

The text of the resolution acknowledged Benazir Bhutto’s steadfast commitment to the rule of law, supremacy of the Constitution, promotion of democracy, and the defense of Pakistan’s strategic interests, particularly her pivotal role in safeguarding the country’s nuclear program and enhancing missile technology capabilities.

 

Cross-Party Support Highlights National Consensus,

The unanimous passage of the resolution marked a moment of political harmony in the AJK Legislative Assembly. Leaders from all sides of the aisle endorsed the resolution, recognizing Benazir Bhutto’s status as a symbol of democratic resilience and national pride.

Minister Syed Bazal Ali Naqvi, while presenting the resolution, stated:

“Shaheed Benazir Bhutto remains an icon of courage and determination. Her sacrifice and legacy continue to inspire millions across Pakistan and Azad Kashmir. Naming the Islamabad International Airport in her honor is a rightful and overdue tribute.”

Historical Context: Renaming the Airport,

It is worth noting that the original plan during the airport’s construction phase included naming the facility after Benazir Bhutto. However, following political transitions, the final name “Islamabad International Airport” was adopted when the airport was inaugurated in 2018. The demand to restore her name to the airport has surfaced intermittently since then, particularly from members of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and allied political factions.

The AJK Assembly’s latest resolution reignites this national debate with a formal legislative backing from a regional but constitutionally significant legislative body.

Benazir Bhutto’s Enduring National Impact,

Born in 1953, Benazir Bhutto was twice elected as the Prime Minister of Pakistan, in 1988 and again in 1993. She was not only the first woman to lead a Muslim-majority nation but also a strong advocate of democratic governance, gender rights, nuclear deterrence, and socio-economic reforms.

Benazir Bhutto was tragically assassinated on December 27, 2007, during an election rally in Rawalpindi. Her death sent shockwaves throughout the country and the world, symbolizing the risks faced by democratic leaders in volatile regions.

The resolution from AJK reflects a recognition of her legacy, especially her vision for a peaceful, progressive, and sovereign Pakistan.

Next Steps and Federal Consideration,

The AJK Assembly has formally communicated its resolution to the federal government, urging it to consider the renaming of the Islamabad International Airport in line with the sentiments expressed by the Kashmiri legislators.

While the resolution is non-binding, it carries significant symbolic and political weight, particularly at a time when national institutions are under public scrutiny and there is renewed emphasis on honoring the country’s democratic heroes.

Political analysts suggest that such a resolution—especially passed unanimously—could encourage the federal cabinet to revisit the naming decision, especially if similar calls arise from other provincial or national legislative forums.

 

Key Highlights,

• AJK Assembly unanimously passes resolution to rename Islamabad International Airport after Shaheed Benazir Bhutto.
• Resolution presented by Syed Bazal Ali Naqvi, Minister for Social Welfare and Women Development.
• Recognizes Bhutto’s role in national defense, nuclear program, democracy, and constitutional supremacy.
• Federal government urged to implement the recommendation.
• Cross-party support underscores broad national consensus on Bhutto’s legacy.