ANP leader Nazia Shah submits nomination papers

Anees Takar

MARDAN: Syeda Nazia Shah, a prominent social activist and former President of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industries, submitted her nomination papers for the Provincial Reserved Seat for Women (MPA) to the Election Commission, on Saturday.

Accompanied by party members and supporters, Syeda Nazia Shah visited the Election Commission office in Pakistan Peshawar to complete the formalities for her candidacy. Speaking to the media after submitting her nomination papers, she expressed her commitment to women’s empowerment and active participation in legislative processes.

Syeda Nazia Shah, a leader of the Awami National Party (ANP), emphasized the importance of women’s representation in decision-making bodies. She stated, “I believe in the power of women to bring about positive change in our society. By contesting for this reserved seat, I aim to contribute to legislative initiatives that promote women’s rights, education, and economic empowerment.”

Highlighting the need for inclusivity, Shah added, “Our democracy thrives when diverse voices are heard. Women’s perspectives are crucial in shaping policies that address the challenges faced by our communities. I intend to advocate for issues that matter most to women in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.”

Syeda Nazia Shah’s political journey has been marked by her advocacy for social causes, and her decision to contest for the women’s reserved seat aligns with her longstanding commitment to championing women’s rights and socio-economic development.

While talking to media, she said that i see this election as an opportunity to elevate the voices of women in our region. It’s not just about securing a seat; it’s about creating a platform for women to actively participate in decision-making. We need policies that address the specific challenges faced by women, from education to healthcare to economic opportunities. “I believe in the principles of democracy, and a diverse representation ensures that the concerns of all segments of society are taken into account. If elected, I will work tirelessly to bridge gaps and advocate for policies that foster equality and progress” said Nazia.

As Syeda Nazia Shah enters the electoral arena, her campaign focuses on promoting a more inclusive political landscape, where women’s perspectives are integral to shaping the future of Mardan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as well.

Meanwhile, Around 131 candidates on Saturday submitted their nomination papers so far to contest polls on total three national and eight provincial assemblies seats of the district. As per the data provided by returning offices, 29 candidates belonging to different political parties as well as independent individuals had submitted their nomination papers for three NA seats including NA-21, NA-22 and NA-23.

Similarly, they said that 102 aspirants of different political parties and independent candidates had submitted their nomination papers for eight provincial assemblies seats including PK-54, PK-55, PK-56, PK-57, PK-58, PK-59, PK-60, PK-61.

Former chief minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ameer Haider Khan Hoti had submitted his nomination papers for two seats including NA-22 anf PK-58. Likewise, ex-senior provincial minister of PTI Muhammad Atif Khan had also submitted his nomination papers for NA-22 and PK-59 seats.

It values to mention here that the political activities and election campaign of different political parties had got high momentum soon after the polls announcement by election commission of Pakistan. The election commission of Pakistan had made two days extension in the date for nomination papers that was why it was expected that a large number of aspirants for polls to get and submit their nomination papers.