Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the youngest scion of the Bhutto family, has been elected unopposed as a member of the National Assembly from NA-207 constituency, Nawabshah. This significant electoral victory comes as Aseefa formally enters the political arena, inheriting a legacy deeply entrenched in Pakistani politics.
Aseefa Bhutto submitted her nomination papers to contest the by-election on a seat vacated by her father, Asif Ali Zardari, after he was elected the president of Pakistan. Nominated by the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), Aseefa encountered no opposition as no other candidate submitted nomination papers against her.
Expressing her gratitude upon being elected as a member of the National Assembly, Aseefa stated, “It is an honor for me to be elected to this coveted seat. I pledge to serve the people beyond political affiliations.” Her foray into electoral politics marks a significant moment in her journey, as she vows to uphold the principles of public service and advocacy for the people.
Born on February 3, 1993, in London, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari is renowned for her advocacy in public health, particularly her contributions to polio eradication initiatives. As the first child in Pakistan to receive the polio vaccine, Aseefa symbolizes her family’s commitment to healthcare and public welfare.
Educationally accomplished, Aseefa holds a bachelor’s degree in politics and sociology from Oxford Brookes University, alongside a master’s degree in global health and development from University College London. Her academic achievements underscore her dedication to addressing pressing societal issues and advancing healthcare agendas.
Meanwhile, allegations surrounding the by-election in the NA-207 constituency have surfaced, with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Sindh chapter claiming that their candidate, Ghulam Mustafa Rind, was unjustly arrested by the police to facilitate Aseefa Bhutto’s victory. The PTI condemned this action, emphasizing their solidarity with Rind and denouncing any attempts to disrupt the electoral process.
Responding to these allegations, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar refuted claims of Rind’s arrest by the Sindh police, urging against the propagation of falsehoods and divisive politics. Lanjar emphasized the PPP’s commitment to democracy and urged all parties to engage in fair and transparent electoral practices.
As Aseefa Bhutto Zardari embarks on her political journey, her election unopposed to the National Assembly reflects both her personal dedication to public service and the enduring legacy of the Bhutto family in Pakistani politics.