In a sweeping change, 36% of the National Assembly welcomes fresh faces, marking a significant shift in Pakistan’s political landscape. Among the 96 new members, Mir Jamal Khan Raisani of the People’s Party emerges as the youngest member from Balochistan, injecting new energy into the assembly.
Independent candidates, backed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf, lead the influx of newcomers, signaling a dynamic shift in political allegiance. Notably, 15 members from Muslim League-N, 11 from PPP and MQM each secure their first-time seats, alongside debutants Abdul Aleem Khan and Aoon Chaudhary, entering the fold of the National Assembly. PML-N’s Attaullah Tarar secures his maiden seat, joining the ranks of Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Sher Afzal Marwat, and Latif Khosa. ShandanaGulzar, transitioning from a specific seat to a general one, consolidates her presence in the assembly.
MQM sees new blood with Rauf Siddiqui, Syed Mustafa Kamal, and Arshad Vohra making their inaugural mark in the National Assembly.
In a ceremonial affair, 282 members solemnly take oath, with luminaries like Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Asif Zardari, and Nawaz Sharif gracing the occasion. Notable figures including Shahbaz Sharif and MaulanaFazlurRehman add weight to the assembly’s proceedings. Despite a delayed start, the meeting commences with the recitation of the Holy Quran, setting a solemn tone for the session. The gathering witnesses the swearing-in of diverse representatives, including Umar Ayub and Barrister Gohar, alongside Ali Muhammad Khan of the Sunni Ittehad Council.
As the assembly convenes, it embodies the diverse fabric of Pakistani democracy, with 266 members directly elected and the remaining nominated by the House of Representatives, echoing the voice of the nation.—INP
