LAHORE: The Punjab Assembly convened on Monday to appoint Maryam Nawaz from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) as the chief minister of the province. Notably, the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) boycotted the session.
Maryam’s election marked a historic moment as she became the first female chief minister in Pakistan’s history, securing 220 votes in the recent general elections held on February 8.
Rana Aftab Ahmad, the candidate from the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), failed to secure any votes due to their party’s election boycott following restrictions on their participation.
The announcement of Maryam’s victory was made by Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan, who extended congratulations to the PML-N’s vice-president.
In her acceptance speech, Maryam began with a recitation and extended congratulations to the newly-elected speaker and deputy speaker.
Expressing her desire for opposition participation in the democratic process, Maryam acknowledged the absence of the SIC during the polls and thanked her party members for their unwavering support.
She also expressed gratitude towards members of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Istehkam-e-Pakistan (IPP) for their votes.
Maryam emphasized the significance of her election for women, expressing hope for the continued advancement of women in leadership roles.
Reflecting on her journey, which included personal challenges such as arrests and family hardships, Maryam conveyed a message of reconciliation rather than vengeance towards the opposition.
She credited her late mother for her strength and perseverance, acknowledging her role in preparing her for leadership.
Maryam concluded her speech by expressing gratitude to her late mother’s guidance and support, emphasizing the lessons learned in overcoming adversity.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
