Aseefa's nomination as first lady sparks debate

President Asif Ali Zardari has decided to confer the title of the first lady upon his daughter, Aseefa Bhutto. Traditionally, the role of the first lady has been reserved for the wives of presidents or prime ministers, prompting questions about the legitimacy of appointing a daughter to the position.

Some legal experts, when contacted, confirmed that the president holds the authority to confer the title upon any female member of his family. They said there are no legal barriers preventing such an appointment.

The president's entitlements and privileges mentioned in the act of 1975 do not include any mention of the first lady. On the other hand, the Warrant of Precedence issued by the Ministry of Interior does not mention the first lady or first husband.

The Warrant of Precedence is a formal document or list that outlines the order of precedence or ranking of individuals in a particular context, such as official ceremonies, diplomatic events, or state functions. It establishes the protocol for seating arrangements, introductions, and other formalities based on the relative importance or status of individuals or their positions.

Under constitutional provisions and existing laws, all privileges and benefits enjoyed by the president extend to his immediate family members, including children, spouses, and other relatives.

Read more: President Asif Zardari presented guard of honour

According to the law, the president's family members are authorized to use official residences, aircraft, and other facilities during travel. They also have the option to get railway saloons and official vehicles for their use. The laws regarding allowances received by the president will also be applicable to the family.

Earlier in the day, President Zardari was presented with a guard of honor by a smartly turned-out contingent of the armed forces at the President's House. During the ceremony, the national anthem was played with the newly-elected president arriving in the traditional presidential carriage.

The event was attended by the president's family, including PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
On Sunday, Zardari took the oath as the 14th President of Pakistan. Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa administered the oath at a ceremony held in the Presidency.

A day earlier, on Saturday, the PPP co-chairman won the presidential election by securing 411 votes against Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) candidate Mahmood Khan Achakzai’s 181 votes. Zardari is the first president in the country’s history to be elected to the coveted position for a second term.