Maryam Nawaz, marking a historic milestone, was sworn in as Punjab’s Chief Minister on Monday, becoming the first woman to hold the province’s highest executive position. The oath-taking ceremony at the Punjab Governor House saw over 1,000 distinguished guests, including diplomats, celebrities, political figures, journalists, and members of the Sharif family, such as Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif.
Governor Baligh Ur Rehman administered the oath following her victory amidst a boycott by PTI-Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) members. Maryam clinched the position with 220 votes, while her opponent from SIC, Rana Aftab Ahmad, received none due to the party’s election boycott.
Read: Maryam Nawaz and Rana Aftab Vie for Punjab Chief Minister Amid Political Walkout
Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan, overseeing the session, confirmed Maryam’s win by announcing her 220 votes against Rana Aftab’s zero. In her inaugural speech, Maryam reached out to the opposition post-victory, emphasizing her desire for their participation in the democratic process. She expressed gratitude towards her party, the PPP, and IPP members for their support, dedicating her win to the women of Pakistan and highlighting her journey marked by personal and political trials.
Maryam outlined her governance vision, focusing on economic reforms, anti-corruption measures, and health, education, and IT improvements. She promised to establish Ramadan Sasta Bazaars, revamp the school curriculum, construct major hospitals in each district, and reintroduce Nawaz Sharif’s health card scheme. Addressing women’s safety, Maryam announced plans for an exclusive helpline and equal loan opportunities for women, along with establishing daycare centres at workplaces.
The Chief Minister-elect also pledged support for marginalized communities, digitalization efforts, the creation of IT cities, and the launch of a free wifi project in Lahore. Furthermore, she committed to investigating police misconduct in Taxila and improving solar panel access for low-usage consumers. Maryam also proposed health and life insurance plans for media workers and their families.
Concluding her speech, Maryam’s election establishes her as the first female Chief Minister of Punjab and the fourth Sharif family member to govern the province. Elected in two Lahore constituencies during the February 8 general elections, she resigned from her National Assembly seat to focus on her role in Punjab.
