In a first, Sindh PA gets woman opp leader

In a momentous development, Rana Ansar Naqvi of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement- Pakistan (MQM-P) has become the new leader of the opposition in the Sindh Assembly.

Stepping into the shoes of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Haleem Adil Shaikh, Ansar etched her name in the country's history as the first woman to hold this coveted position in the Sindh Assembly, marking a remarkable milestone for women's representation in the province's political landscape.

During Wednesday's proceedings, Speaker Agha Siraj Durrani informed the MPAs about the submission of an application seeking Ansar's appointment as the leader of the opposition.

Acting promptly, the speaker instructed the assembly's secretary to adhere to the established rules and regulations while extending his heartfelt congratulations to Ansar in anticipation of her forthcoming role. Subsequently, Ansar took her place as the new opposition leader, signifying a triumph for gender equality and progress in the corridors of power.

The Sindh Assembly session commenced with a delay of an hour and 20 minutes, under the chairmanship of Speaker Agha Siraj Durrani. Kicking off the proceedings, Durrani warmly extended birthday wishes to former president Asif Ali Zardari, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to democracy and his perseverance during trying times, including periods of incarceration.

In the course of the question hour, Parliamentary Secretary for Industries Nida Khuhro reaffirmed the Sindh government's unwavering commitment to fostering industrial development within the province. She emphasised the administration's resolute support for the industrial sector's growth and prosperity. Regrettably, the absence of many members precluded the consideration of written questions during the question hour.

In response to several call-attention notices, opposition lawmakers vociferously criticised the Sindh government for the deteriorating law and order situation in Karachi and the unchecked proliferation of illegal drug trade.

Drawing attention to the pressing concerns in District West, MQM-P's Sadaqat Hussain expressed grave apprehensions about the area becoming a hotbed for unlawful drug sales and Iranian petrol. He further questioned the licensing of establishments engaged in such activities, while also voicing disapproval of the SSP of District West.

Responding to the attention notices, Minister for Excise and Taxation and Parliamentary Affairs Mukesh Kumar Chawla assured that the inflow of Iranian petrol had been effectively halted. Chawla urged fellow members to provide any pertinent information about drug dealers, promising prompt and decisive action against them. He also explained that the security agencies were currently engaged in Muharram duties and that addressing the issue more comprehensively would follow after the holy month.

Political observers say that with Rana Ansar Naqvi's ascension as the opposition leader, the Sindh Assembly has taken a giant stride towards greater inclusivity and empowerment for women in the realm of politics.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 27^th, 2023.