ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appointed Naureen Lehri Bano as the acting chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), marking a significant step in the government’s efforts to stabilize institutional leadership for women’s rights. Ms. Bano, a dedicated member representing Balochistan, takes the helm of the country’s premier body for the promotion and protection of female empowerment at a critical juncture for gender-based policy reforms.
Key Highlights
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New Leadership: Naureen Lehri Bano from Balochistan takes over as Acting Chairperson of NCSW.
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Transition of Power: Outgoing acting head Ume Laila Azhar returns to her role as a member representing Punjab after a 17-month tenure.
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Long-standing Vacancy: The permanent chairperson position has remained vacant since Nilofar Bakhtiar retired on July 28, 2024.
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Institutional Commitment: The NCSW reaffirmed its mission to safeguard women’s rights and strengthen advocacy across the country.
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Government Strategy: The appointment is viewed as a move to ensure regional representation in high-level federal commissions.
Strengthening the Institutional Framework
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the NCSW emphasized that Ms. Bano’s appointment reflects the federal government’s commitment to “strengthening institutional leadership.” The commission noted that her background and experience would be instrumental in advancing the legal and social protections afforded to women across Pakistan.
The leadership transition follows the retirement of former chairperson Nilofar Bakhtiar in July 2024, after which the commission was managed by interim heads. By appointing a member from Balochistan, the Prime Minister has signaled an inclusive approach to federal oversight bodies, ensuring that provincial perspectives are integrated into the national gender agenda.
Acknowledging Continued Service
The commission also lauded the “dedicated services” of the outgoing acting chairperson, Ume Laila Azhar. During her 17-month tenure, Azhar was credited with strengthening the NCSW’s advocacy frameworks and institutional stability during a period of transition.
“Her tenure has been marked by significant contributions toward strengthening NCSW’s advocacy and institutional work,” the handout stated. Ms. Azhar will not be leaving the commission; instead, she will continue her service as a member for Punjab, ensuring that her expertise remains available for ongoing legislative and social projects.
The Road Ahead for NCSW
As the new acting head, Naureen Bano faces a robust agenda, including the monitoring of pro-women laws and addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by women in rural and urban areas alike. Observers note that the appointment brings much-needed continuity to the commission, which remains the primary advisor to the government on policy matters concerning the status of women.
The NCSW remains a vital organ in Pakistan’s democratic structure, tasked with reviewing all laws, rules, and regulations that affect the gender balance within the nation.
The appointment of a seasoned representative from Balochistan is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the commission’s efforts in bridging the gender gap in the country’s most underdeveloped regions.
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