- Pakistani women’s participation in politics has increased, challenging the once male-dominated landscape.
- Notable figures like Benazir Bhutto and Begum Ra’ana Liaquat Ali Khan have broken barriers, with Bhutto becoming the first female Prime Minister of Pakistan and Liaquat Ali Khan serving as the first woman governor of any province.
- Modern politicians like Hina Rabbani Khar and Maryam Nawaz continue this trend, with Nawaz poised to become the first female Chief Minister of Punjab, further cementing women’s roles in Pakistani politics.
The involvement of Pakistani women in politics has seemed to be increasing over time. Once a male-dominated career, politics was all about men taking powerful positions and ruling important countries, however, that is no longer the case.
Women have proven that they are natural leaders and are as good as men when running a country, or any given position.
Today, we will celebrate the Pakistani women in politics and their accomplishments as trailblazers as we are ready to witness another one of them make history, soon.
6 Pakistani Women in Politics Who Created History
1. Benazir Bhutto
The daughter of former Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, Benazir Bhutto became the first woman Prime Minister of Pakistan (and the Muslim world) in 1988. She served two non-consecutive terms, facing numerous challenges and setbacks throughout her career. Bhutto’s assassination in 2007 was a major loss for Pakistan and the world.
2. Begum Ra’ana Liaquat Ali Khan
Begum Ra’ana Liaquat Ali Khan, more than just a former First Lady, carved her path in Pakistani politics, shattering glass ceilings along the way. Here are some key highlights of her remarkable achievements:
- First woman governor of any province in Pakistan: She wasn’t just the First Lady (wife of the first Prime Minister, Liaquat Ali Khan), but also the first woman to hold governorship of any province, leading Sindh with distinction.
- Diplomatic Acumen: Beyond domestic politics, Begum Ra’ana served as Pakistan’s ambassador to three European nations: the Netherlands, Italy, and Tunisia, showcasing her diplomatic skills on the global stage.
- A Life of Service: Her dedication to public service wasn’t limited to high-profile positions. She was also actively involved in social welfare initiatives, advocating for women’s empowerment and education.
3. Fehmida Mirza
Fahmida Mirza is a Pakistani politician who was the Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination, in office from 20 August 2018 until 10 April 2022. She served as the 18th and only woman Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan from March 2008 to June 2013. She was elected as the first female Speaker of a Lower House of Parliament in South Asia. She received 249 votes and defeated her opponent Muhammad Israr Tareen who could secure 70 votes only.
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4. Hina Rabbani Khair
In July 2011, history was made in Pakistan when Hina Rabbani Khar, at the young age of 33, became the nation’s first female Foreign Minister. This groundbreaking appointment not only marked a significant step forward for gender equality in Pakistani politics but also brought a fresh perspective and youthful energy to the country’s diplomatic landscape.
5. Maleeha Lodhi
Maleeha Lodhi is a Pakistani diplomat, political scientist, and former Pakistan’s Representative to the United Nations. She was the first woman to hold the position. Previously, she served as Pakistan’s envoy to the Court of St James’ and twice as its ambassador to the United States
6. Maryam Nawaz
Nawaz is ready to create history by becoming the first female CM of Punjab and create a legacy of her own following her father’s and uncle’s. Maryam Nawaz was selected as PML-N’s nominee for Punjab Chief Minister after the official announcement by Shehbaz Sharif.
What are your thoughts on these Pakistani women in politics? Share them with us in the comments below.
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