The political arena is often one where the worst of human nature takes a front seat, rearing its ugly head while wearing a malevolent sneer. Within this universe, where power dynamics often intertwine with societal norms and prejudices, it is thus not uncommon to witness instances that expose the underlying gender biases prevalent in our society.

Recently, Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Khan Gandapur made a remark that was not only a grim reflection of his own mindset, but also shed light on the broader issue of misogyny and gender roles in Pakistan. When asked about Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz’s appearance in a police uniform, Gandapur’s response was, “She does so many things. Tomorrow you will ask me to do the same,” accompanied by a head tilt and smug grin.

One can fairly assume that the comment carried undertones of sexual condescension, suggesting that Nawaz engages in activities deemed disgraceful. The video sparked furore online, with one X user stating, “This isn’t the first time the now CM of KPK, Ali Amin Gandapur has made a misogynistic comment about women. Whether you like Maryam Nawaz or not, no fellow CM should have to face such sexist remarks from her counterpart!” Another said, “Ali Amin Gandapur should not be allowed in Federal/Punjab province until he apologises for his disgusting and misogynistic comments against Maryam Nawaz.”

Journalist Murtaza Solangi called the politician a “shameless, clueless, brainless m***n,” and another user of the site formerly known as Twitter added, “Repulsive is the only word that comes to mind. And he runs a province that takes pride in the way they treat their women.” Another journalist added, “Ali Amin should retract his statement and apologise to Maryam. His comments were disgusting. Some individuals really need to work on their communication skills and remember the formula ‘think before you speak’. It’s not Ali Amin but the people of KP who will pay for it.”

Such insinuations not only demean Nawaz but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes about women in positions of power. By implying that Nawaz’s actions are questionable or shameful, Gandapur essentially aimed to attempt to discredit her authority and undermine her credibility as a leader.

This is a tactic often employed to undermine women in public spaces, portraying them as unfit or unworthy of holding positions of power. This becomes especially true when that power is within the female leader’s grasp. With disrespect as their guiding light, comments made in such a manner hope to tarnish the way the manner in which that power has been obtained.  

Furthermore, the sexual undertones of Gandapur’s comment are deeply troubling. By gesturing that Nawaz’s actions are somehow sexually suggestive, he reduces her to a mere object of male fantasy, stripping away her agency and autonomy. This not only demeans Nawaz as an individual  – a politician with a fair share of power and thus, privilege, mind you – but also sends a chilling message to all women in politics and otherwise that their actions will be incessantly scrutinised through a lens of male entitlement and objectification.

Gandapur’s remark also highlights the broader issue of gender roles in Pakistani society. Women in positions of power are often subjected to heightened scrutiny and criticism, not only for their actions but also for their appearance and demeanour. They are expected to conform to traditional gender norms and behave in a manner deemed appropriate by society, lest they face backlash and condemnation.

Systemic barriers and discriminatory attitudes also play a role in limiting their participation and influence in decision-making processes. From casual sexism to overt misogyny, women are often subjected to scrutiny and ridicule based on their gender, rather than their qualifications or contributions to society.

Additionally, it is essential to recognise that Gandapur’s remark is not an isolated incident but rather symptomatic of a larger culture of misogyny and gender discrimination that exists within Pakistani politics. On the flip side, when feminists and advocates rally calls for gender equality, they, too, are thrown under the relentless bus of misogyny, with the smallest queries raised about their “agenda” and intentions distracting from the issue at hand.

In a country where gender equality remains a distant pipe dream, it is imperative for political leaders to set a positive example by promoting respect, inclusivity, and gender sensitivity in their words and actions. Gandapur’s remark serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to challenge and dismantle entrenched gender biases in Pakistani society, particularly within the ferocious world of politics.

Ultimately, Gandapur’s misogynistic highlights the urgent need to confront and dismantle the structural barriers that perpetuate gender inequality in Pakistani politics. Only through concerted efforts to challenge entrenched attitudes and promote gender equality can we create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

As feminists and advocates call for gender equality, it is incumbent upon us to condemn misogyny in all its forms and demand accountability from those in positions of power. Only by confronting and addressing the underlying attitudes and structures that perpetuate gender inequality can we truly strive towards a more equitable and inclusive society for all.

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