Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai has found herself at the center of controversy following her collaboration with former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on the Broadway musical “Suffs.”
The musical, which highlights the American women’s suffrage movement, premiered in New York last week but has faced backlash due to Clinton’s political positions, particularly regarding Israel’s conflict with Hamas.
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Malala, known for her courageous activism for girls’ education and human rights, co-produced “Suffs” alongside Hillary Clinton, a figure who has drawn criticism for her foreign policy decisions during her time in government, including drone strikes in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
I have admired Malala since 2011, even before she was shot and left Pakistan for treatment. I have always endorsed her causes, always been a supporter of her as she became a symbol of courage and resilience against oppression of women and inequality of genders. Her theatre… pic.twitter.com/hJSAtwjnaY
— Mehr Tarar (@MehrTarar) April 24, 2024
The collaboration between Malala and Clinton has ignited debates about the complexities of activism and politics, especially in the context of international relations.
In Pakistan, where strong pro-Palestinian sentiments prevail, Malala’s partnership with Clinton has raised eyebrows and led to questioning of her credibility as a human rights advocate.
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Critics, such as author Nida Kirmani, have expressed disappointment and concern over Malala’s collaboration with Clinton.
Maddening & heartbreaking at the same time. What an utter disappointment, @Malala. You let us all down. pic.twitter.com/23m9zvY62n
— Nida Kirmani (@NidaKirmani) April 22, 2024
Malala’s symbolic gesture at the premiere, wearing a red-and-black pin in support of a ceasefire, contrasts with her association with Clinton, whose policies and actions have been scrutinized for their impact on civilian populations in conflict zones.
