Islamabad: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) is not just a political entity but a philosophy and mission of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, which will continue till the end of time. We are willing to sacrifice everything to preserve this party and carry forward its mission.
These views were expressed by Mohammad Basharat Awan, leader of the PPP International Labour Wing (currently based in the Netherlands), in an exclusive interview. He stated that he recently became aware of internal divisions within PPP in the Hazara Division, which was confirmed when two different party factions invited him to separate events commemorating Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s death anniversary on April 4, 2025. In response, he refused both invitations and decided to hold an international-standard commemoration in his hometown, Bandi Dhondan, Abbottabad.
Basharat Awan highlighted the current state of confusion and disorganization within the Hazara Division PPP. He criticized the regional leadership for failing to manage the party effectively, allowing a newcomer, Saleem Shah, to gain control using financial influence. He alleged that Saleem Shah, originally from another PPP faction, secured party positions and even obtained party tickets for the 2024 general elections by using his wealth. Following electoral losses, he appointed himself as the Hazara Division president and installed his relatives in key positions, sidelining long-standing party leaders.
According to Awan, PPP’s traditional leadership in Hazara Division, particularly the Jadoon clan, has benefited from the party but has failed to contribute effectively to its progress. He recalled how the party was historically dominated by figures like Gul Hameed Khan Jadoon and Iqbal Khan Jadoon but has now lost direction due to weak leadership.
Awan warned that if the PPP central leadership, particularly Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, does not intervene, the party in Hazara Division will become ineffective. He further stated that Saleem Shah’s dominance could lead to an exodus, as he has personally funded public welfare projects, making him more influential among voters than the party itself. If he decides to leave PPP, he may take his entire faction along with him.
Concluding the interview, Basharat Awan urged party members to stop internal conflicts and seek resolutions through central leadership. He emphasized that he has been a dedicated party worker since 1968 without seeking any official position and called upon the PPP leadership to take immediate action to restore unity in Hazara Division.
