PPP leader Ahsan Rizvi highlights Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s stated positions on women’s empowerment, minority rights, Kashmir and democracy.
LAHORE: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Central Punjab Deputy Information Secretary Ahsan Rizvi has said party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari remains committed to a peaceful, progressive and democratic Pakistan, with women’s empowerment, minority protection and social justice among his stated priorities.
Rizvi made the remarks while addressing a gathering of the Peoples Youth Organization and Peoples Students Federation held to mark Bilawal’s birthday. He said meaningful participation by women in national life was essential for Pakistan’s development and that protecting their rights remained a priority for the PPP.
Highlighting Bilawal’s position on child marriage, Rizvi referred to legislation passed by the PPP-led Sindh government in 2013 that set the minimum legal marriage age at 18 in the province. He said Bilawal has advocated extending the same standard nationwide.
On minority rights, Rizvi said Bilawal has repeatedly called for the protection of religious minorities and linked the issue to Pakistan’s founding principles. He said the sacrifices made in the struggle against extremism, sectarianism and dictatorship should guide efforts to build an inclusive society.
Rizvi also highlighted Bilawal’s stated position on Kashmir, saying the PPP chairman has consistently supported the people of Kashmir. He referred to Bilawal’s remarks in Multan in September 2014 and his February 2019 meeting with the Kashmir Council in Washington. According to Rizvi, Bilawal has pledged to raise alleged human rights violations in Kashmir at national and international forums.
The PPP leader also cited Bilawal’s October 2022 response to comments by then-US President Joe Biden concerning Pakistan’s nuclear status, describing it as an example of his commitment to national sovereignty.
Discussing counterterrorism, Rizvi said Bilawal believes democracy is the strongest response to extremism and has advocated implementation of the National Action Plan with parliamentary oversight.
Addressing young party workers and students, Rizvi said Bilawal’s political philosophy is rooted in democratic values, workers’ rights and public service. He linked these themes to the PPP’s founding principles and its longstanding slogan, “Roti, Kapra aur Makan.”
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