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