Malala Yousafzai has spoken out against the current political state of Pakistan, specifically condemning the imprisonment of women and former Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan’s arrest. Speaking on Shehzad Roy’s new venture, ‘Laga Reh Podcast,’ the Nobel laureate stated that she stands with the citizens of Pakistan currently struggling for a stronger democratic system.

 

In the exclusive preview obtained by The Current, Roy questions Yousafzai on her perceived silence regarding the internal affairs of Pakistan. He cites a verse regarding revolutionary temperament and controversy, asking if her lack of public commentary constitutes a form of "silent protest." Roy notes that while silence is often a tribute to tragedy, her distance from Pakistani discourse has been noted by the public.

 

Yousafzai responds by stating that while she has not remained actively informed on every political development, her stance on women rights remains firm. "I do want to clearly say that when it comes to women’s rights, even if it is within politics I will definitely want to speak for women’s safety," Yousafzai says. 

 

Addressing the specific situation of female prisoners, she adds, "We have seen many women being put in prison, and that is completely unjust."

 

The conversation shifts toward the stability of the state and the treatment of political leaders. Yousafzai mentions witnessing the removal and imprisonment of three different prime ministers, noting that such cycles indicate a lack of democratic strength. "And Imran Khan is currently in jail as well," she pointed out. 

 

She confirms her support for citizens advocating for justice, stating, "The people of Pakistan who are standing up for justice and for a stronger democracy, I fully stand with them in this struggle."

 

Yousafzai links the necessity of a functioning democracy to her primary focus on girls' education. She argues that without consistency, peace, and stability, the future for children in the country remains uncertain. 

Roy also revisits Yousafzai’s past ambition to hold the office of Prime Minister. He asks if she would prefer to be "the one inside" or "the one outside," referencing the different experiences of leaders like Imran Khan and Shahbaz Sharif. 

 

Yousafzai admits her perspective has changed. "My hope was that if I became Prime Minister, I would be able to do something. But now you can see that a Prime Minister cannot do much," she observed. 

 

The 'Laga Reh Podcast' teaser, shared on YouTube and Instagram, was filmed at Yousafzai’s home in London. The clip promises a conversation that is open, honest, and more personal than usual interviews. 

 

Roy asks questions regarding her life and the challenges she has faced over the years, while her husband, Asser Malik, also joins the conversation. The discussion touches on topics often surrounded by public debate, showing that the episode will not shy away from tough questions. 

 

The teaser also shows Roy directing questions to Malik regarding Yousafzai’s bestselling book. The pacing and tone suggest that the full episode will feature a mix of deep questions and lighthearted moments.