The Political Era of Pakistan Peoples Party (2008–2013): Challenges, Reforms, and Legacy
The Political Era of Pakistan People's Party (2008–2013) Background: The foundation of the Pakistan People's Party's (PPP) 2008–2013 rule was laid when former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto returned to Pakistan in 2007 after signing the NRO (National Reconciliation Ordinance) with General Pervez Musharraf. She launched her election campaign but was tragically assassinated in Rawalpindi on December 27, 2007, leading to nationwide unrest and immense sympathy for PPP. Benazir's death created a leadership vacuum, leaving the PPP weakened outside of Sindh. Nonetheless, her martyrdom led to a wave of sympathy votes, helping PPP secure 89 National Assembly seats in the February 2008 general elections. PML-N won 69, PML-Q got 49, MQM 17, and ANP 10 seats. Following the elections, PPP formed a coalition government with PML-N and other parties. On March 24, 2008, Yousaf Raza Gillani was elected Prime Minister with a two-thirds majority. However, PML-N exited the coaliti...