Firdous Ashiq Awan, born on 11 January 1970, is a prominent Pakistani politician known for her affiliation with the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party. With a career spanning several key positions, she has played integral roles in the national and provincial political landscape.
In the realm of federal governance, Awan served as the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting from 2019 to 2020, contributing to the government’s communication strategies and media relations. Prior to this, she assumed the responsibilities of Federal Minister for National Regulations and Services from 2012 to 2013, showcasing her involvement in regulatory affairs and national service-related matters.
Her noteworthy stint as the Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting from 2011 to 2012 further underlines her significant influence in shaping public narratives and disseminating government information during that period. Awan’s capabilities and experience in information management and communication became evident during her tenure in this crucial portfolio.
Before her roles in information and broadcasting, Firdous Ashiq Awan served as the Federal Minister for Population Welfare from 2008 to 2010. In this capacity, she was instrumental in initiatives related to population control and welfare programs, showcasing her dedication to social development and public welfare.
Her political journey also saw her take on the role of Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Punjab on Information and Culture from November 2020 to 6 August 2021. In this provincial capacity, Awan likely played a key role in shaping cultural and informational policies, further expanding her influence beyond the federal level.
Firdous Ashiq Awan’s multifaceted political career demonstrates her versatility and commitment to serving at both the federal and provincial levels. Her roles in information, broadcasting, population welfare, and cultural affairs underscore her diverse contributions to governance and public service in Pakistan.
Early life and education
Born on 11 January 1970 in Sialkot, West Pakistan, Firdous Ashiq Awan is married to businessman Malik Amjad Awan and is the proud mother of two children.
Her educational journey led her to Fatima Jinnah Medical University, where she pursued and earned her medical degree, MBBS. Commencing her professional career at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Awan initially dedicated herself to medical practice.
However, her commitment to social welfare and public service prompted her to initiate the Society for Health and Development Exchange (SHADE) in the early 1990s. This endeavor was founded with the aim of contributing to the well-being of the public. Awan’s transition from a medical career to actively engaging in social work demonstrates her dedication to making a positive impact on society beyond the realm of healthcare.
In addition to her family life and medical profession, Firdous Ashiq Awan has established herself as a figure actively involved in social development, reflecting a multifaceted commitment to both her personal and professional spheres.
Early Political Advocacy and Healthcare Initiatives (1990-2002)
Firdous Ashiq Awan initiated her political career in 1990 by founding the Society for Health and Development Exchange. Her early focus was on advocating for improvements in the healthcare system, showcasing her commitment to public welfare. In 2002, she secured a seat in the National Assembly on a reserved ticket from PML (Q).
Career
Transition to Pakistan People's Party and Ministerial Roles (2008-2012)
In 2008, Awan transitioned to the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and was elected to the National Assembly from NA-111-Sialkot-II. Her victory, with 77,834 votes, marked a significant shift in her political affiliation. Subsequently, she assumed the role of Minister for Population Welfare and later took charge of the Information ministry in the PPP’s cabinet.
Resignation and Portfolio Reassignment (2011-2012)
Firdous Ashiq Awan’s tenure as Information Minister faced a notable moment when she submitted her resignation to Prime Minister Yousef Raza Gilani on 25 December 2011. Although initially declined, she was later reassigned to the Ministry of National Regulations and Services in April 2012.
Political Transitions and Party Affiliation Changes (2015-2018)
Awan resigned from the vice presidency of PPP in 2015 and, on 30 May 2017, joined the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). However, in the 2018 general elections, she faced defeat in NA-72 (Sialkot-I) while contesting on PTI’s ticket.
Special Assistant Roles in Imran Khan's Government (2019-2020)
Following a cabinet reshuffle in April 2019, Firdous Ashiq Awan was appointed as the Special Assistant to Prime Minister Imran Khan for Information and Broadcasting. She held this position until 27 April 2020, contributing to the government’s communication strategies.
Role in Punjab and Resignation (2020-2021)
On 2 November 2020, Awan assumed the role of Special Assistant to Chief Minister of Punjab Usman Buzdar for Information. Her tenure in this position concluded with her resignation on 6 August 2021, marking another transition in her political journey.