Tributes Paid to MRD Leader Shaheed Fazil Rahu on his 39th Death Anniversary
Sindh remains indebted to Shaheed Fazil Rahu for his steadfast struggle against the One Unit system
By Sawan Khaskheli
BADIN: The 39th death anniversary of renowned leader of the Movement for the Restoration of Democracy (MRD) and a prominent advocate of peasants’ rights in Sindh, Shaheed, Muhammad Fazil Raho was observed with solemnity and respect in Rahuki town, Badin on Saturday.
Addressing the commemorative gathering, Provincial President, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Sindh, Nisar Ahmed Khuhro observed that Shaheed Fazil Raho was a symbol of resistance and sacrifice whose struggle for Sindh and its people must be remembered at all times. He said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto also made historic sacrifices for democracy, adding that the apex Court has acknowledged that the execution of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was a judicial murder.
He stated that Sindh remains indebted to Shaheed Fazil Rahu for his steadfast struggle against the One Unit system.
Speaking on the occasion, Provincial Minister for Universities and Boards Sindh, and son of Shaheed Fazil Rahu, Muhammad Ismail Rahu, said that Shaheed Fazil Rahu dedicated his life to the struggle for the rights of peasants, workers, and marginalized communities, and raised his voice against every form of dictatorship and oppression. He said that Fazil Rahu was not a symbolic leader but a committed activist who believed in practical struggle and demonstrated that politics is meant to serve the people rather than pursue power.
He added that during successive authoritarian regimes, Shaheed Fazil Rahu endured imprisonment and persecution, yet his resolve remained unshaken. Even while incarcerated, he maintained strong links with the masses. He said the Pakistan Peoples Party has consistently defended the rights of Sindh and would never accept any attempt to divide the province. He added that the 18th Constitutional Amendment was introduced by the PPP and the party remains committed to safeguarding it. Member of the National Assembly, Haji Rasul Bakhsh Chandio added that the sacrifices of Shaheed Fazil Rahu and the Pakistan Peoples Party constitute a significant chapter in Pakistan’s democratic struggle. He recalled that following the assassination of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, PPP Co-Chairman, Asif Ali Zardari raised the slogan “Pakistan Khappay,” reaffirming the party’s commitment to national unity. He said the party continues its mission under the leadership of the Chairman, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
Addressing the gathering, PPP Badin District President and Chairman District Council, Jam Ali Asghar Halepoto, District General Secretary Dr. Sajjad Ali Chandio, PPP Taluka Badin President and MPA Haji Taj Muhammad Mallah, District Vice President Pir Amjad Siddiqui, along with other party leaders and members of the Rahu family, said that Shaheed Fazil Rahu’s struggle for the rights of peasants, laborers, and oppressed classes remains unmatched. They said that during the MRD movement, he emerged as a resolute voice against authoritarian rule and laid down his life while adhering firmly to democratic principles.
The speakers said that Shaheed Fazil Rahu’s legacy is inseparable from Sindh’s political history and will always be recorded in golden letters. They emphasized that many of the issues highlighted by Shaheed Fazil Rahu including land rights, peasant welfare, and economic injustice remain unresolved, and stressed the need to carry forward his mission. They urged the younger generation to draw inspiration from his vision, courage, and lifelong struggle.
The anniversary ceremony was attended by a large number of political leaders, representatives of social and peasant organizations, civil society members, workers, and local residents.
Earlier, the floral wreaths were laid at the grave of Shaheed Fazil Rahu, Fateha was also offered, and tributes were paid to his services and sacrifices.
