Mapping Politics of Benazir Bhutto: A Journey of Robust Political Career

Abstract

This research paper focuses on the political career of Benazir Bhutto as the first woman and Muslim Prime Minister of Pakistan. It will also discuss Benazir Bhutto’s strategies and challenges faced by her, during her political tenure. Benazir entered politics after the demise of her father Zulfikar Ali Bhutto (late). The paper also investigates her entire political career under the authoritarian rule of General Zia-ul-Haq, as Prime Minister, her removal from the Prime Minister office, accusation of corruption, the periods of exile. It examines her political elegance, stewardship, policies made by her as a woman Prime Minister and it will also look into her years of exile where she regrouped and repositioned herself politically and forged coalitions before her breathtaking return to Pakistan in 2007.Dejectedly, Benazir Bhutto was assassinated but her legacy will long be remembered in the political history of Pakistan. The research measures her impact on democracy, women in particular, as well as her capacity to politically lead the nation amidst many challenges. The study attempts to narrate Benazir’s political biography with a focus on crucial events and decisions, which is characterized by her strong political career. It will explore the political, social, and institutional challenges faced by Benazir Bhutto during her political career, and the measures she took to deal with her rivals' political and conservative forces in Pakistan. The study will also focus on her accomplishments as a politician, regardless of the issues she faced.

Keywords: Women political participation, Women empowerment, Benazir Bhutto, Leadership, Pakistan People’s Party