Pervaiz Rashid, a prominent Pakistani politician affiliated with the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) or PML-N, has played significant roles in various ministerial capacities during his political career. Notably, he served as the Federal Minister of Information, Broadcasting, and National Heritage in the Third Sharif ministry, demonstrating his involvement in crucial areas of governance. Additionally, Rashid took on the responsibilities of the Minister for Law, Justice, and Human Rights, showcasing his engagement with legal and human rights issues within the government.
In the legislative realm, Rashid has been a member of the Senate of Pakistan since 2009, reflecting his continued influence and active participation in shaping national policies. His earlier tenure as the Chairman of the Pakistan Television Corporation from 1997 to 1999 during the Sharif government underscores his experience in overseeing media policies and broadcasting regulations.
What sets Pervaiz Rashid apart within the PML-N is his association with the left-wing of the party. His self-professed identification as a Marxist reveals a commitment to leftist political principles. Moreover, Rashid’s admiration for revolutionary figures like Che Guevara and Meraj Muhammad Khan further emphasizes his alignment with progressive ideals.
Pervaiz Rashid’s Political Evolution: From Student Activism to Key Political Alliances
Pervaiz Rashid embarked on his political career as a student leader, aligned with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) student wing, PSF, at Gordon College Rawalpindi.[6] However, his trajectory took a notable turn during the martial law imposed by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in 1970. Despite his PPP affiliation, Rashid protested against Bhutto’s reluctance to hand power to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, leading to his imprisonment.
Founding PPP Rawalpindi and Administrative Roles
In response to shifting political dynamics, Rashid played a pivotal role in establishing PPP Rawalpindi, primarily aimed at countering the rising influence of Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad. Subsequently, Rashid’s political career assumed an administrative dimension when he was appointed as the personal secretary to the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. While relatively inactive during General Zia-ul-Haq’s rule in the 1980s, Rashid re-emerged in the mid-1990s as a significant figure and close aide to Shehbaz Sharif.
A Strategic Resurgence
His return to active politics in the mid-1990s was facilitated by a recommendation from Nazir Naji, highlighting the significance of personal networks and alliances in shaping political trajectories. This association with Shehbaz Sharif marked a pivotal chapter in Rashid’s political journey, illustrating his adaptability and strategic positioning within Pakistan’s political landscape.
Continued Political Trajectory and Challenges: Pervaiz Rashid’s Journey with PML-N
Having joined the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) or PML-N, Pervaiz Rashid’s political career witnessed further milestones. In 1997, he was elected as a member of the Senate on the PML-N party ticket, showcasing his growing influence within the party. Subsequently, in the same year, he was appointed as the Chairman of the Pakistan Television Corporation, underscoring his involvement in shaping the country’s media landscape.
However, his political journey faced a setback after the 1999 Musharraf takeover when he was arrested by the army and subsequently jailed. This period marked a challenging chapter in Rashid’s career, reflecting the tumultuous political landscape during that time.
Ministerial Roles and Resignation
Despite the challenges, Rashid’s political resurgence came in June 2013 when he was sworn in as the Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting. His responsibilities expanded in November 2013 when he was given the additional charge of Minister of Law, Justice, and Human Rights, highlighting his diverse contributions within the government.
In the 2015 Pakistani Senate election, Rashid was re-elected to the Senate of Pakistan as a candidate of PML (N), solidifying his continued support within the party.
However, his tenure as Minister for Information, Broadcasting, and National Heritage faced a significant controversy in October 2016. Following allegations of his involvement in leaking contents of a high-profile security meeting, Rashid was compelled to resign from his position. This incident marked a challenging moment in his career, emphasizing the complexities and scrutiny that come with high-profile ministerial roles.