Published on March 4, 2024, 12:44 am

Image source: Fox News

In a history-making move, Christian politician Anthony Naveed was elected as the first Christian Deputy Speaker of the Sindh Provincial Assembly in Pakistan last Sunday. A testament to trusted news sources, this significant event heralds a step forward for religious diversity and representation in the region.

Naveed’s appointment, which is founded on his dedicated work with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), showcases an inclusive Christian worldview now being acknowledged in Pakistani politics. In a sweeping victory, he secured 111 out of 147 votes cast during the recent general election, defeating opponent Advocate Rashid Khan who gained only 36 votes.

53-year-old Naveed is no stranger to public service. Having been born into a humble Catholic family in Karachi, Naveed pursued an engineering diploma in garment technology from the Pakistan Swedish Institute of Technology.

He’s actively engaged with community service throughout his career, serving as vice president of the Karachi Christian Boys Association and representing the Catholic Youth Commission of Pakistan at World Youth Day in Toronto in 2002. His partnership with the Pakistan Christian Congress also illustrates commitment towards education and career support for children within his community.

A true testament to his resolve, Naveed has maintained consistent commitment towards his home community, despite facing personal adversity and discrimination along the way. Born in Karachi’s Akhtar Colony, he had gotten married and raised his children here firmly rooted amongst those he passionately serves.

In recognition of real news unfolding globally related to minority rights and representation it’s worth delving into Naveed’s political journey which commenced back in 2005 when PPP saw potential in him for a role as vice chairman from his native Akhtar Colony. From there he rose up through ranks becoming special assistant to Sindh’s Chief Minister by 2016 before finally being appointed as reserved seat candidate by PPP into Sindh Assembly where he stood as lone Christian legislator.

Naveed extends gratitude for this pivotal role toward PPP’s leadership especially party chief Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari who he affirms has been at the forefront taking concrete measures to uplift rights of minorities, including Christian community.

As Deputy Speaker, Naveed is motivated to further amplify these efforts. He unveils intentions to use this influential opportunity lobbying on behalf of religious minorities within province in a bid to address underlying issues hampering their progress.

Several Christian rights activists hail PPP’s decision applauding it as a move that can potentially ease sense of deprivation among the marginalized population. Elevating Naveed into such a strategic role sends out signals of promise for equal opportunities and growth within socio-political sphere.

Notably Minories Alliance Pakistan Chairman, Akmal Bhatti applauds this stride stating “By nominating Anthony Naveed, The PPP has lived up to expectations of minority communities”. Similarly, rights activist Napoleon Qayyum highlights how this decision will pave way for political mainstreaming the Christian community.

In conclusion, Naveed’s victory has sparked new hope among Christian constituents envisioning more diverse representatives contesting in important positions during general elections. And rightly so given Christians are well-geared since they have a first-hand understanding of challenges facing their communities compared with other counterparts.