Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Breaking traditional norms, Saveera Parkash, a Hindu woman in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Buner district, has officially submitted her nomination papers for a general seat in the upcoming general elections in Pakistan. Set to take place on February 8, the elections will determine the members of the 16th National Assembly.
Saveera Parkash, a member of the Hindu community, filed her nomination papers for the general seat of PK-25 in Buner district. Inspired by her father, Om Parkash, a recently retired doctor and devoted member of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) for 35 years, Saveera is optimistic about contesting the elections on a PPP ticket.
As the general secretary of the PPP women’s wing in Buner, Parkash expressed her commitment to community welfare, with a focus on improving conditions for women, ensuring a safe environment, and advocating for their rights. She highlighted the neglect and suppression of women in the development sector and aims to address these issues if elected.
Saveera Parkash, a 2022 graduate of Abbottabad International Medical College, aspires to follow in her father’s footsteps and work for the underprivileged in her area. Her nomination marks a historic moment, as she becomes the first woman from Buner to submit papers for the upcoming election on a general seat.
Parkash, with a background in medicine, stressed that her commitment to “serving humanity is in my blood.” Her decision to enter politics stems from her firsthand experiences with poor management and helplessness in government hospitals during her medical career.
Despite her political affiliation, Imran Noshad Khan, a social media influencer from Buner, wholeheartedly endorsed Saveera Parkash, praising her for breaking stereotypes perpetuated by traditional patriarchy. He emphasized the significance of a woman stepping forward to contest elections in a region where it took 55 years since Buner merged with Pakistan.
Recent amendments by the Election Commission of Pakistan mandate a five percent inclusion of women candidates in general seats, reflecting a positive step toward increased gender representation in politics.
Link: https://ecp.gov.pk/general-elections
