From grassroots to deputy speaker: hope for Pakistan’s minorities

Amidst the storm of political turmoil and disheartening news that often dominates the headlines in Pakistan, this past Sunday was different. The Pakistan People’s Party’s successful appointment of Naveed Anthony, a member of the Christian community from Karachi, as the deputy speaker of the Sindh Assembly, was a step step forward in the right direction.

Anthony’s appointment carries immense symbolic weight and sends a powerful message to all religious minorities in Pakistan: you are valued members of our society, and your voices and contributions are not only recognized but actively sought after.

The message can serve as a powerful catalyst, fostering a sense of belonging and trust amongst the communities that historically faced challenges of discrimination and marginalization.

Personally, having observed his rise from local government politics in Akhtar Colony, where he became the vice-chairman of the union council through direct elections, I understand the significance of his 19-year journey. 

Few are aware that Anthony played a pivotal role in assisting the PPP’s Karachi stalwart, Saeed Ghani, in winning his provincial assembly seat for Karachi in a by-election held in July 2017. Before this, the constituency, which includes lower-income areas such as Akhtar Colony, Mehmood Abad, Chaensor Goth, and other localities, was a stronghold of either the MQM or independent candidate Irfanullah Marwat, both of whom had managed to secure the support of the sizable Christian community in their favor. However, since 2017, Ghani has consistently been elected as an MPA with the backing of Christian voters.

It is important to acknowledge that Anthony’s appointment against the backdrop of historical discrepancies in the representation of religious minorities within the PPP.

The party’s focus on Hindu communities in rural Sindh, due to their larger population, has often overshadowed the concerns and aspirations of the Christian community in urban centers like Karachi. Anthony’s rise signals a shift in this dynamic, offering a much-needed sense of recognition and representation for Karachi’s Christians.

However, the challenge of representation extends beyond reserved seats.

Minorities in Karachi, particularly Christians, often reside in densely populated neighborhoods. During local government elections, community representatives often demand tickets for general seats, advocating for the opportunity to elect representatives who directly address their local needs. This call, however, has often fallen on deaf ears.

Anthony’s commitment extends beyond his personal achievement. He actively participates in the National Lobbying Delegation for Minority Rights, a prominent advocacy group working tirelessly to safeguard the rights of religious minorities in Pakistan. His involvement in initiatives like the implementation of education and job quotas for minorities, as well as the Hindu Marriage Law, highlights his dedication to creating a more equitable society for all.

Religious inclusivity in politics is not just about individual representation; it is also about promoting social harmony and stability. When all communities feel they have a stake in the political system, they are less likely to resort to violence or extremism. 

While Naveed Anthony becoming Sindh’s deputy speaker is a positive development, it is important to remember that it should not be seen as a token gesture. True religious inclusivity requires more than just one appointment. It requires systematic changes to ensure that all religious communities have equal opportunities to participate in politics, from grassroots levels to the highest offices. This includes reforming electoral laws, addressing discrimination in political parties, and promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Web Desk