Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala’s father, Ziauddin Yousufzai, has begun a campaign to urge world leaders to sign a petition to nominate social activist and philanthropist Abdul Sattar Edhi for the Nobel Peace Prize 2016.
“Edhi has dedicated his life to helping others and his fleet of free ambulances have become a common feature of everyday life in Pakistan.
“He is 88 years old and this year I would like to see his life’s work recognised with the Nobel Peace Prize,” Yousufzai said.
In October 2014, Malala, then 17, became the youngest person to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in promoting children’s rights.
Recalling his daughter’s win, Yousufzai wrote, “When my daughter Malala won the Nobel Peace Prize my pride was immeasurable – words alone cannot express the overwhelming flood of emotions my wife and I felt. The award has elevated the profile and importance of education for every girl and every child globally. I believe Edhi deserves such an honour.”
With just a few weeks before nominations close, the petition has 126,080 supporters already and requires 23,920 more to reach a total of 150,000.
Yousufzai further wrote in detail about Edhi’s work as a humanitarian. “Edhi has worked selflessly for several decades in serving the people of our great nation.
“In a country where terrorism, poverty, natural disasters are a regular phenomenon, his foundation gives medical and emergency support to people all over Pakistan. He gives shelter to orphaned children and the destitute, free medical care, drug rehabilitation services and disaster relief. In times of trouble Edhi’s ambulances roam where even the law enforcement agencies do not,” the Nobel Prize winner’s father explained.
Referring to Edhi as ‘a global firebrand’, Yousufzai said, he is “aware of Edhi’s failing health, which began to rapidly deteriorate over the last twelve months. With this in mind, I would like to stress the urgency in Edhi being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2016 in recognition of his services to the people of Pakistan.”
Malala, who also signed the petition, justified her reason for doing so, “I’m signing this petition started by my father calling on our world leaders to nominate Abdul Sattar Edhi for the Nobel Peace Prize 2016. Abdul Sattar Edhi continues working tirelessly for humanity – he inspires me everyday! Edhi serves the most vulnerable, voiceless and unheard people in Pakistan.
“He is a true role model for each and everyone of us. I urge you all to join me in honouring the work of Edhi and his Foundation.”
The petition is available in Urdu as well as Pashto.
Edhi’s followers took to Twitter to show support and encourage more people to sign the petition.
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Give edhi the noble peace prize
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