Asif Ali Zardari, a prominent leader of the PPP, marked a significant moment in Pakistan’s political landscape on Sunday as he took the oath for his second term as president. The swearing-in ceremony, conducted by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, unfolded amidst grandeur at the Presidency, with key figures including newly-elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and outgoing President Dr. Arif Alvi in attendance.
Zardari’s Presidential Encore: A Second Term Inauguration Amidst Political Pomp
Among the distinguished guests were Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, underscoring the event’s significance. Notable political figures such as former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq graced the occasion, alongside a host of other leaders from across the political spectrum.
However, the absence of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur of PTI was noted. Family members of President Zardari, including his daughters Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari and Bakhtawar Bhutto-Zardari, were also present, adding a personal touch to the ceremony.
The day prior to his inauguration, Mr. Zardari clinched victory with 411 electoral votes, securing his position over his opponent from the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP). This victory not only marked a personal achievement but also a testament to Pakistan’s democratic process.
International leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Iranian leader Syed Ebrahim Raisi, extended their congratulations to President Zardari, emphasizing the strength of bilateral relations and the hope for further cooperation between their nations and Pakistan.
While the ceremony unfolded with grandeur inside the Presidency, outside, some PPP leaders protested the stringent security measures that prevented them and others from attending the event. Their grievances highlighted the challenges of balancing security protocols with ensuring the inclusion of all invited guests.
Despite the protest, the swearing-in ceremony concluded smoothly, heralding a new chapter in Pakistan’s political landscape under President Asif Ali Zardari’s leadership.
