Born to Be Hanged By Syeda Saiyidain Hameed

Born to Be Hanged: Political Biography of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto by Syeda Saiyidain Hameed is a captivating exploration of the life and career of one of Pakistan's most influential leaders. Hameed delves into the complexities of Bhutto's persona, tracing his journey from a scion of a powerful feudal family to the corridors of power in Pakistan, and ultimately to the gallows. This political biography offers deep insights into Bhutto's policies, his role in shaping Pakistan's destiny, and the controversies surrounding his tenure as Prime Minister. Hameed's meticulous research and engaging narrative make this book an indispensable read for anyone seeking to understand the intricate dynamics of Pakistani politics.

Key Points:

1. Early Life and Education
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was born into a wealthy and influential feudal family in Sindh, British India, in 1928. He received his early education from Karachi and Bombay before pursuing higher studies at the University of California, Berkeley, and later at the University of Oxford, where he was influenced by socialist ideologies.

2. Rise to Political Prominence
Bhutto's political career began in the civil service of Pakistan, where he rose quickly through the ranks. He caught the attention of President Ayub Khan and served in various ministerial positions, eventually becoming Pakistan's Foreign Minister in 1963, where he gained international recognition for his advocacy of Third World causes.

3. Founder of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)
In 1967, Bhutto founded the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), which aimed to represent the interests of the common people, particularly in rural areas. The PPP gained widespread support, especially among the disenfranchised and marginalized sections of society.

4. Prime Ministerial Tenure
Bhutto became Pakistan's first democratically elected Prime Minister in 1971 after leading the PPP to a landslide victory in the general elections. During his tenure, he implemented progressive reforms, including land redistribution and the nationalization of key industries.

5. Nationalization Policies
One of Bhutto's most controversial moves was the nationalization of several industries, including banking and steel, which aimed to reduce economic disparities and assert state control over strategic sectors. However, these policies also led to economic instability and a decline in private investment.

6. Foreign Policy Initiatives
Bhutto pursued a policy of non-alignment and sought to strengthen Pakistan's ties with Muslim countries and the socialist bloc. He played a key role in the formation of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and advocated for Muslim solidarity on the international stage.

7. Controversial Election of 1977
The 1977 general elections were marred by allegations of widespread rigging and electoral malpractices. Opposition parties, led by the Pakistan National Alliance (PNA), accused Bhutto's government of electoral fraud, triggering mass protests and civil unrest.

8. Overthrow and Trial
Amid mounting pressure from opposition parties and public discontent, Bhutto's government was toppled in a military coup led by General Zia-ul-Haq in 1977. Bhutto was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit murder, leading to a highly controversial trial that culminated in his execution in 1979.

9. Legacy and Influence
Despite his controversial legacy, Bhutto remains a polarizing figure in Pakistani politics, revered by supporters for his charisma and populist policies, while criticized by opponents for his authoritarian tendencies and alleged corruption. His daughter, Benazir Bhutto, followed in his footsteps and became Prime Minister, continuing his political legacy.

10. Impact on Pakistani Politics
Bhutto's tenure as Prime Minister left a lasting impact on Pakistani politics, shaping the country's socio-economic landscape and political discourse. His populist agenda and emphasis on socialist principles continue to resonate with certain segments of society, while his authoritarian tendencies and confrontational style of governance remain subject to debate and scrutiny.