Political Ascendancy and Historic Milestones

Following the assassination of her father in 1979, Benazir Bhutto emerged as a central figure in the resistance against military rule. In 1982, at the age of 29, she became the chairperson of the PPP, making her the first woman to lead a major political party in Pakistan. In 1988, she achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman to be elected Prime Minister of a Muslim-majority country. She remains the only female Prime Minister in Pakistan's history.

Reform Agenda and Economic Policies

During her first term, Bhutto launched several initiatives aimed at improving Pakistan’s economy and national security. Her administration promoted social-capitalist policies aimed at stimulating industrial development. Bhutto’s economic philosophy centered on deregulation—especially in the financial sector—along with the denationalization of state-owned enterprises, flexible labor markets, and a strategic reduction in government subsidies. Despite these reform efforts, her government struggled with rising unemployment, economic recession, and growing concerns about corruption.

Challenges and the "Iron Lady" Persona

Political instability and mounting opposition led to the dismissal of Bhutto’s first government by President Ghulam Ishaq Khan in 1990. Nevertheless, she returned to power following the 1993 parliamentary elections. Her second tenure was marked by resilience: she survived an attempted coup in 1995 and took a firm stance against trade unions and domestic political rivals. Her assertive approach earned her the nickname "Iron Lady" and the affectionate title “BB” among supporters. However, fresh allegations of corruption against her administration led President Farooq Leghari to dismiss her second government in 1996.