(Web Desk) - Rehana Magsi emerges as the pioneer woman to enter the electoral arena in Balochistan, the largest yet least populated province of Pakistan.
Hailing from an ethnic Baloch tribe in the remote PB-11 constituency of Jhal Magsi district, Rehana Bibi Magsi is vying for a general seat in the upcoming Febry 8 elections under the banner of the local political party, Jamote Qaumi Movement.
Highlighting the disparities in her constituency, Magsi points out the lack of essential services such as education, healthcare, and water, despite the influential political legacy of Nawab Zulfiqar Ali Magsi, who has held positions as both governor and chief minister of the province.
Jhal Magsi, like many areas in Balochistan, grapples with issues like inadequate infrastructure, limited healthcare access, and a scarcity of economic opportunities.
Magsi's bold endeavor is not without risks, as she aims to challenge the longstanding rule of her own tribal chieftains. Her primary goal is to raise awareness among community members, urging them to empower themselves and secure their fundamental rights.
Undeterred, she conducts an extensive door-to-door campaign, traversing villages on motorbikes accompanied by her supportive brother and husband.
Facing a challenging landscape, Magsi stands as the sole female contender among 16 male candidates vying for a seat in the Balochistan Assembly.
In a parallel historic move, Dr. Saveera Parkash, the first woman from the minority Hindu community, is also making her mark by contesting provincial elections in the KPK Buner district.
These strides signify a significant shift in the political landscape, with women breaking barriers and challenging traditional norms in pursuit of representation and progress.
Despite increased awareness and technological advancements, women are actively engaging in the exercise of their rights and participation in the political realm.
However, breaking free from traditional gender roles in a patriarchal society poses significant challenges. Women encounter considerable societal and familial pressure rooted in religious and societal norms when attempting to step out of their homes, assert their rights, and pursue public offices.