In our patriarchy society Syma Nadeem breaks the stereotype that women have little space politics. The talented MNA is outspoken, practical, and dedicated to what she does.
While taking an oath on 13th August 2018, she promised was to serve humanity. We spoke to her about the struggles of a female politician and her mission.
MM: What is the daily routine of an MNA like?
Syma Nadeem: Normally, an MNA has different legislative work on the Standing Committee’s agenda to point out public issues in the sessions. I am also the Federal Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination and my role and nature of work expand to defending my ministry in parliament.
I have to remain updated on the current steps taken by the minister or organisations directly under our ministry. Other than that, my office work relates to attending subsequent meetings or events held by those organisations.
The work in Karachi includes welfare work in the NA-237 constituency and defending government or party line as a spokesperson on talk shows or public forums and conferences held by international activists working on different issues in Pakistan.
MM: What made you chose politics?
Syma Nadeem: I don’t consider myself a typical politician. I am here to serve humanity and change the course of my country. I want to give a future to the new generation of Pakistan.
MM: A woman who inspires you and why?
Syma Nadeem: I consider myself extremely lucky to work under a lady I had admired for so long; she is well known in Pakistani politics as the first woman Speaker of the National Assembly, who contested five times from Badin and been a minister couple of times, before being appointed as Federal Minister of Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination. I look up to Fahmida Mirza as a mentor in the political arena.
MM: What challenges do women face when they assert themselves in politics?
Syma Nadeem: The main challenge a woman faces in politics is that still today she is denied the right to contest from a winning seat. Secondly, she has to struggle hard in a male dominated world to compete for a coveted seat. If she gets a better position she faces constant fear to reach the benchmark.
MM: Have you worked on any policy issues regarding women and what challenges did you face?
Syma Nadeem: I am working as a task force member of SDG to form a policy to empower women in the aftermath of COVID-19.
MM: Your most memorable moment in the National assembly?
Syma Nadeem: When I took the oath I looked up to thank Allah and saw the 99 names on the roof of the assembly. It was the most memorable moment that touched me and made me realise that now I was given a task by Allah and I have to fulfill it In Sha Allah.
MM: Who is PTI’s best asset and why?
Syma Nadeem: There is no doubt it’s our Prime Minister Imran Khan because of whom we are all here to serve our nation without any expectation in return.
MM: Describe Pakistani politics in three words?
Syma Nadeem: Hypocrisy, dishonesty, and heartlessness. However, we are not typical politicians. We are here to change all this.
MM: Three characteristics you believe every leader should possess?
Syma Nadeem: Honesty, a good character, and empathy.
MM: What advice would you give someone entering into a political career?
Syma Nadeem: Enter with a clear mind that politics is not about earning, it’s about delivering. Feel the pain of the masses and devote your life to a cause to serve with honesty!
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