Mashal Azam Yousafzai Elected Youngest Senator from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Historic PTI Victory

Mashal Azam Yousafzai Becomes Youngest Senator in Senate By-Election from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Peshawar: In a significant political development, Mashal Azam Yousafzai, backed by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), secured a major victory in the by-election for a women's seat in the Senate from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Held on Thursday, this election marks a strong comeback for PTI’s political presence in the upper house.

Mashal Azam won the seat with a clear majority, receiving 86 out of 140 valid votes, as per Form-58 issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). Her main opponent, independent candidate Mehtab Zafar, backed by the opposition alliance, secured 53 votes, while another independent candidate, Saima Khalid, received a single vote.

The by-election was necessitated following the resignation of Dr. Sania Nishtar, a renowned technocrat and former PTI senator.

Voting took place from 9 AM to 4 PM at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, where 143 members cast their ballots. Two lawmakers were absent from the voting process.

Mashal Azam’s Political Background

Mashal Azam previously served as Special Assistant to the KP Chief Minister, a position from which she was removed in November last year. Additionally, she is widely known for having served as the spokesperson for Bushra Bibi, wife of PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Following her victory, Mashal expressed deep gratitude towards her party and its leadership. In her remarks to the media, she stated:

“I am truly honored and thankful to my leader Imran Khan and the party leadership for placing their trust in me. This win is not just mine, but a victory for every young woman aspiring to bring change in Pakistan.”

She also emphasized her commitment to representing the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and upholding democratic values in the upper house of parliament.

PTI’s Continued Influence

Mashal Azam’s election demonstrates PTI's continued influence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, despite facing multiple political challenges in recent months. This win also signals the party's strategy to empower younger leaders, particularly women, to take up prominent roles in the political landscape of Pakistan.

Significance of This Victory

The victory is not only symbolic in terms of gender representation but also in restoring confidence among PTI supporters across the country. By electing one of the youngest members to the Senate, the party has sent a clear message about its future direction—inclusivity, youth leadership, and renewed political vigor.

Mashal Azam Yousafzai’s Senate tenure is expected to bring fresh perspectives on youth empowerment, women’s rights, and democratic governance in the national dialogue.