Our history
ہماری تاریخFrom a founding convention in Lahore in 1967 to the present day: the milestones of Pakistan's largest democratic movement.
Few political parties anywhere can say their story began in the city they still call home. The Pakistan Peoples Party was founded in Lahore, and Lahore has remained at the centre of its struggles, its jalsas and its victories ever since.
Founded in Lahore
On 30 November 1967, delegates from across Pakistan gathered in Lahore and founded the Pakistan Peoples Party, electing Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as its first chairman. The party adopted the promise that still defines it: roti, kapra aur makaan.
The people's mandate
In Pakistan's first general election on the basis of adult franchise, the PPP emerged as the largest party in West Pakistan, sweeping Punjab and Sindh.
Simla Agreement
The government of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto negotiated the Simla Agreement, securing the return of around 90,000 prisoners of war and captured territory.
The Constitution of Pakistan
The 1973 Constitution, adopted unanimously under PPP leadership, remains the foundation of Pakistan's federation. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto became Prime Minister.
Islamic Summit in Lahore
Leaders of the Muslim world gathered in Lahore for the second Islamic Summit Conference, hosted by Prime Minister Bhutto.
Martial law
The elected government was overthrown in a military coup on 5 July 1977, beginning a long era of resistance for party workers.
Shahadat of the founder
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was executed on 4 April 1979 after a trial that remains deeply contested. To party workers he remains Quaid-e-Awam, the people's leader.
The historic Lahore reception
On 10 April 1986, Benazir Bhutto returned from exile to Lahore. The welcome she received, with crowds stretching from the airport towards Minar-e-Pakistan, is remembered as one of the largest gatherings in the city's history.
First woman Prime Minister of the Muslim world
At 35, Benazir Bhutto was sworn in as Prime Minister of Pakistan, the first woman to lead a modern Muslim state. She served again from 1993 to 1996.
Shahadat of Benazir Bhutto
Benazir Bhutto was assassinated in Rawalpindi on 27 December 2007, weeks after her return to Pakistan. Days later, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was named chairman, alongside the co-chairman.
Restoring the federation
The PPP-led government launched the Benazir Income Support Programme, agreed the 7th NFC Award and passed the 18th Amendment, returning autonomy to the provinces.
A new generation
Under Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the party is organising a new generation of workers. In Lahore Division, Membership Drive 2026 is registering members across all ten towns.