Reham Khan’s onset on the political scenario of Pakistan, though sudden and unprecedented, has become very obvious and noticeable recently. Her public persona has undergone a major transition from a journalist to the right hand of the country’s widely criticised, albeit much-followed cricketer-turned-politician, Imran Khan. Many have likened her to grow into another Maryam Nawaz. This major transformation occurred once Reham got married to Khan in early 2015. And whether there is a fund-raising event for Shaukat Khanum, electioneering campaign in Karachi or a controversial tweet, Reham always stands by Khan dutifully and purposefully as KP’s First Lady, as many call her.
Although, the wedding ceremony of the couple was a low-key event and as declared by Shireen Mazari from PTI, an ‘extremely private affair’, Reham Khan is now very visible on the political scenario of Pakistan. She comes off as strong, and this is precisely the reason Imran Khan, as he stated, chose to marry her in the first place. The PTI Chairman was specifically impressed by the fact that Reham as a divorcee had managed two jobs in the UK, along with upbringing her children very dutifully. This was cited by him when the couple had their first TV interview after their walima. There was speculation that this strong lady would be there on the political scene but no one was sure of the extent.
Reham Khan gained prominence in political scenario when she visited NA-246 Karachi for electioneering with Imran Khan. Although it was commented that Reham was there on the call of MQM, she firmly rejected this statement by declaring, “I am coming to Karachi on the invitation of my brothers and sisters from NA-246” and that she was there only as a “as a spouse and as a partner”. Later, Reham was appointed as the Ambassador of Street Children in KP, which forced people question Imran Khan questioned about his claims of fighting against dynastic politics, nepotism and cronyism.
Another very noticeable part about her public stance was made in her interview to India Today in May, presenting her claim that women needed to stop whining, stop complaining and work on getting rid of the poor self-perception they had. Looking at her record, one can very well assume that Reham has lived by this principle all her life. However, Reham once again got trolled on Twitter when she put the tweet about Imran Khan’s chappal being available for PKR 5,500, along with free home delivery. She gave the reference of a message by Arif Alvi, another prominent PTI leader, who rejected it as spam. This raised a question on her credibility and responsibility.
One thing is sure. Reham Khan is on the political scenario to stay. Even her production project “Jaanan” is designed to create a positive image of KP, the province where Imran Khan has the highest stakes. However, controversies surround her personality time and again, and it is hoped that over time, these do not get the best of a strong-willed and independent lady who has gained a presence in the political scenario of Pakistan.
RABBIA NASIR
Lahore
جو ریحام خان کے بی بی سی میں گن تھے ایسی عورتوں کو ھمارے ھاں بازاری عورتیں کھتے ھیں.
So what do you expect Imran to do? Ask his WIFE not to accompany him anywhere?
Had Imran Khan asked her to stay at home when he is out and about, people like you would have cried out for women's rights and how 'pathans' keep their women enslaved.
Grow up and stop letting your prejudices rule your senses. Imran has not given her a portfolio to manage, unlike your master gifted Mariam, Hamza, and other sham businessmen in his family with public funds to play with.
تیرے جیسے میں نے بڑے مشٹنڈے دیکھیں ھیں.
First lady? How can a woman with absolutely no political and moral sense be called 'First lady'?
Reham will prove time and time again that she is nothing but a wannabe, social climber and has nothing to offer. You will see her true colors very soon.
I think it is wrong to call or dub her as First Lady of KPK. She is not married to Parvaiz Khattak/ Khan would not lie it. It is quite dubious and ugly. She has a person that endears her to the people. She is far better than Maryam Nawaz the daughter of the Prime Minister and a lackey of PML (N) corrupt apparatus. she resigned from the chairmanship of the Youth loan scheme project , but lords other departments of the State.
On the other hand Reham is making contribution towards the progress of social sector related projects. She is standing by her husband and echoes his sentiments. She definitely is a likeable person. She has entered the arena of politics willingly though she denies any political ambitions. A role has been curved for her by the P T I. She is keeping low profile though quite visible on the political scene.
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