ISLAMABAD: Addressing a conference of young leaders in Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday said that the parliament had decided that the president should have a certain political role, while the rest of his role should rest with the parliament.

Zardari’s statement comes after the federal government filed a review petition on Saturday against the Supreme Court’s verdict in the Asghar Khan case, but only with reference to the court’s remarks made about the incumbent at the presidency.

The SC’s decision had ruled that the individual holding the president’s post would violate the Constitution if he or she failed to treat all people equally and without favouring anyone in particular. The government’s review petition argues that that the office of the president is a political office and that the president cannot be aloof from political activity.

President Zardari said the people of Pakistan were fighting war against the same mindset that had attacked young Malala Yousufzai and continued ruined the country’s peace. Zardari called upon the young attendees to also challenge this mindset to safeguard themselves and their future generations.

The president added that it was his government’s priority to empower people and provinces for strengthen the federation and safeguarding future of coming generations.

Moreover, he added that the government not only pursuing a policy of reconciliation inside the country, but was also taking steps to reduce tension and improve relations with neighbouring India.

Following his address to the ‘Pakistan Leaders of Tomorrow’ conference, Zardari also answered questions asked by the young attendees.