Zardari

Asif Ali Zardari (born 26 July 1955) is a Pakistani politician and businessman who has been a leading figure in the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). He is the widower of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and the father of PPP leaders Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Bakhtawar Bhutto Zardari, and Aseefa Bhutto Zardari. Zardari rose to national prominence after Bhutto’s assassination in 2007 and, with the party, helped shape the return to civilian government after years of military rule. He was elected President of Pakistan in 2008 and served until 2013, a period in which civilian oversight of government institutions was prioritized and presidential powers were curtailed by constitutional amendments, notably the 18th Amendment enacted in 2010.

During his presidency, Zardari focused on political stabilization, economic reform efforts, and restoring civilian institutions after a period of military influence. His tenure also coincided with ongoing attempts to negotiate political settlements with regional parties and stakeholders and to manage relations with Pakistan’s international partners.

Since leaving office, Zardari has remained a senior figure within the PPP, a party he co-chairs, and has continued to be involved in national politics. He has faced various corruption allegations and legal challenges from Pakistani accountability bodies, leading to a long-running series of court cases and investigations. Supporters describe the cases as politically motivated, while critics say they reflect broader accountability processes in the country.

Zardari’s role in Pakistan’s political landscape has made him one of the most recognizable and controversial figures in the PPP, with his family continuing to influence the party’s direction.