The humanitarian organizations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, especially those who are working for the rights of women have shown great concern over provincial government decision for not giving ministerial portfolio to women candidates.  Although day before yesterday some Pakistani news channels ran tickers announcing the nomination of PTI’s MPA, MS. Nasim Hayat for ministerial portfolio of social welfare. However, the party changed its decision over night.

Upon asking why the decision was changed, Ms. Nasim Hayat told voiceofjournalists that she was not aware of the development. She said if the news was true, her party was supposed to consult her first before taking any such steps. She added that the news on TV channels has disappointed not only her but the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as well.

It was expected that atleast one woman would be part of the KP’s cabinet. However, the formation of a cabinet comprising all men has raised many questions. It should be noted here that despite the law and order situation in the province, majority of Pakhtun women got out of their homes and exercised their right to vote. Having no female representative in the cabinet certainly did not go well with all those female voters.