Aseefa advocates rural women’s empowerment

She quoted Bilawal's commitment to women's economic participation

TANDO ALLAHYAR:

In a powerful address at a large gathering at a women's workers convention in the Shahpur Rizvi area of Tando Allahyar, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, underscored the importance of women's rights and economic independence, aligning her message with the tenets of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's 'Awaami Muashi Muahida'.

Aseefa began her speech with a tribute to her mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, "She always fought for the rights of women," highlighting key initiatives under her leadership that revolutionised women's roles in Pakistan, like women's police stations, the Lady Health-worker Programme, and the First Women's Bank.

She then connected these historic efforts to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's contemporary economic vision, particularly focusing on elements of the 'Awaami Muashi Muahida' that directly impact women.

She quoted Bilawal Bhutto's commitment to women's economic participation, "Our agenda includes ensuring equal pay for equal work for women, and promoting female entrepreneurship through microfinance and skill development programs."

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This statement reflects the PPP's dedication to bridging gender gaps in the workforce and supporting women-owned businesses.

Aseefa emphasized the importance of education and healthcare, cornerstones of the 10-Point Agreement, in empowering women, "An educated woman uplifts her entire family. Our commitment to enhancing healthcare and education for women is unwavering." She cited PPP's past successes, including the Lady Health Workers program, as a testament to their long- standing commitment to these sectors.

Addressing the plight of rural women, she stated, "The PPP understands the unique challenges faced by our rural sisters. Land rights, agricultural reforms, and access to credit are integral to our economic plan, empowering women as both beneficiaries and decision-makers."

Criticizing the opposition, she said, "While others focus on the wealthy few, we aim to uplift the many, especially our women who are the backbone of our society." She positioned the PPP as a champion of the underprivileged, contrasting its goals with those of other political parties. She asked those present to vote for local candidates Zulfiqar Ali Bachani, Syed Zia Abbas Shah Rizvi, and Imdad Pitafi, and to elect them to parliament to strengthen the Peoples mandate. Urging support for Bilawal Bhutto, she implored, "On February 8, vote for the Arrow.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 18^th, 2024.