The Bhutto Dynasty
Owen Bennett-Jones
24 min
8 Key Points
4.5 RateWhat's inside?
Explore the intriguing political history of Pakistan through the lens of the influential Bhutto family, their rise to power, and their ongoing struggle for control.
You'll learn
1. The Bhutto family's role in Pakistan's politics2. The tricky game of power in Pakistan3. How the Bhuttos shaped Pakistan's global ties4. The effect of political murders on the Bhuttos and Pakistan5. The fight for democracy in a military-ruled Pakistan6. A look at Pakistan's current social and political issues.Key points
01The Rise of a Dynasty
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, born into a wealthy landowning family in Larkana, Sindh, on January 5, 1928, was destined for greatness. His father, Sir Shah Nawaz Bhutto, a prominent political figure and the Prime Minister of the princely state of Junagadh, set the stage for Bhutto's political journey. The privilege of his birth and the quality of his education, which spanned from the Cathedral and John Connon School in Bombay to the University of Southern California and the University of California, Berkeley, prepared him for the influential role he would play in Pakistan's political landscape. Bhutto's political career took off in 1957 when he was appointed as a member of Pakistan's delegation to the United Nations. His charisma and eloquence quickly propelled him through the ranks, leading to his appointment as the youngest ever Commerce Minister under President Iskander Mirza's government in 1958. The political climate in Pakistan during Bhutto's ascent was fraught with challenges. The end of the British Raj and the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 had left the country grappling with the complexities of nation-building. The integration of refugees, the establishment of a new constitution, and the resolution of territorial disputes with India were among the many issues that the young nation faced. Bhutto's political acumen did not go unnoticed. In 1963, President Ayub Khan appointed him as the Foreign Minister of Pakistan. During his tenure, Bhutto played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan's foreign policy. His efforts in strengthening ties with China led to the construction of the Karakoram Highway, a significant achievement that symbolized the deepening relationship between the two nations. Bhutto's representation of Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council during the Indo-Pak war of 1965 further cemented his reputation as a leader committed to his nation's sovereignty. His famous declaration, "We will eat grass, even go hungry, but we will get one of our own (atomic bomb)... We have no other choice!" resonated with the people of Pakistan, reflecting their determination and resilience in the face of adversity. Bhutto's rise to power was not just the story of an individual's journey, but the beginning of a political dynasty that would shape the course of Pakistan's history. His ability to navigate the complex political landscape of Pakistan, his charismatic leadership, and his unwavering commitment to the nation's sovereignty were the hallmarks of his tenure. These qualities, coupled with his significant contributions to Pakistan's foreign policy, laid the foundation for the Bhutto dynasty's enduring influence on the nation's political trajectory.
02The Power Struggle
The political landscape of Pakistan underwent a significant transformation during the mid-20th century, largely due to the influence of one man: Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Serving as the Foreign Minister under President Ayub Khan from 1963 to 1966, Bhutto played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan's foreign policy. His tenure, however, was not without controversy, as disagreements with President Ayub Khan, particularly over the Tashkent Agreement, led to his resignation in 1966. This event marked a turning point in Bhutto's political career and set the stage for his rise to power. Bhutto's resignation from the Ayub Khan administration was a bold move that demonstrated his commitment to his political beliefs. His opposition to the Tashkent Agreement, which he viewed as a capitulation to India following the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, highlighted his staunch nationalism and refusal to compromise on matters of national sovereignty. This stance resonated with many Pakistanis, who admired his courage and conviction. In 1967, Bhutto founded the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), a left-wing, populist political party that aimed to represent the interests of the common people. The party's manifesto, "Islam is our faith; democracy is our policy; socialism is our economy," struck a chord with the masses, leading to its rapid growth. Bhutto's charismatic leadership and populist policies, which focused on the promise of "roti, kapda, aur makaan" (food, clothing, and shelter), appealed to the working class and rural populations, further bolstering his popularity. The general elections of 1970 marked a significant milestone in Bhutto's political journey. The PPP emerged as the largest party in West Pakistan, paving the way for Bhutto's ascension to power. This victory was a testament to Bhutto's ability to connect with the masses and his understanding of the socio-economic issues plaguing the country. In 1971, following the secession of East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh, Bhutto was handed over the reins of a deeply divided and demoralized nation. His swearing-in as the President of Pakistan on December 20, 1971, marked the beginning of a new era in the country's political history. His tenure as President was marked by significant political and constitutional changes, including the drafting of the 1973 Constitution, which transformed Pakistan from a presidential to a parliamentary democracy. In conclusion, Bhutto's political career was marked by a series of significant events that shaped the course of Pakistan's history. His influence extended beyond his tenure as Foreign Minister and President, as his populist policies and charismatic leadership continue to resonate with the masses. His legacy, however, is a complex one, marked by both significant achievements and controversies. Despite this, there is no denying the profound impact he had on Pakistan's political landscape.
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03The Reign and Downfall
04The Dark Days
05The Legacy Continues
06The Tragic End
07The Bhutto Dynasty Today
08Conclusion
About Owen Bennett-Jones
Owen Bennett-Jones is a British journalist and author, known for his expertise on South Asian affairs. He has worked for the BBC as a foreign correspondent and presenter, covering global events. His writings, including "The Bhutto Dynasty," reflect his deep understanding of political dynamics in Pakistan.