ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has expressed deep concern over the increasing trend of extremism among the country’s youth. Speaking at the inauguration of the Synthetic Ground and Pink Football Tournament at Lyari International Football Stadium on Friday, Bilawal highlighted the alarming push towards religious, ethnic, and political extremism by certain elements within Pakistan.
Bilawal praised the newly built international-standard football ground in Lyari and celebrated the participation of women from across the province in the tournament. “It is an honor for us to witness women from Sindh playing football at this level,” he said, emphasizing the importance of including women in the country’s development, as envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and exemplified by his late mother, Benazir Bhutto.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by women but noted the significant progress made by the women of Sindh, particularly in Lyari. “These women, today playing football in Lyari, will represent Pakistan at international levels tomorrow,” he stated confidently.
Bilawal also addressed the broader issue of youth development, stressing that with 70% of the country’s population being young, their development is crucial for Pakistan’s future. However, he expressed concern over the increasing push towards extremism among the youth. “Everyone knows that the future of this country lies with the youth. However, there are people in this country with a mindset that seeks to push young people towards extremism, whether it be religious, ethnic, or political extremism. They want to destroy the future of our youth,” he said, adding, “I want to see my youth progressing. I want to see them playing, studying, and working.”
Reflecting on Lyari’s historical role in the PPP’s struggle, Bilawal credited the area’s people for their steadfast support in the party’s democratic journey. He also mentioned the efforts of Lyari’s people, particularly in electing Karachi’s first “Jiayala Mayor,” and urged Karachi’s mayor to ensure the city’s municipal work prioritizes Lyari.
Bilawal praised the Sindh Pink Football Championship, organized by the Sindh Sports and Youth Department, which saw 320 female players from 16 teams across the province participating. He reiterated his commitment to supporting youth development and combating extremism to secure a brighter future for Pakistan.