Mariam Nawaz’s First Year as Punjab CM: A Year of Progress, Criticism, and Controversies

Islamabad:After Pakistan’s general elections on February 8, 2024, Mariam Nawaz Sharif assumed office as the Chief Minister of Punjab on February 26. In her first year, her tenure was marked by a blend of commendable achievements, public backlash, and significant controversies. From large-scale development projects to personal criticism, Mariam Nawaz’s leadership attracted both praise and skepticism.

### **Initial Steps: Commendable Actions and Early Criticism**

Upon taking office, Mariam Nawaz took swift action by visiting various police stations in Lahore and making surprise visits to government hospitals and schools. Her proactive approach in the initial days was well-received by the media, but it wasn’t long before public sentiment began to shift. While some appreciated her direct engagement with the administration, others grew critical of certain actions and decisions.

### **Controversies: Public Criticism Grows**

#### **Outrage Over Foreign Trips During Environmental Crisis**
One of the earliest points of contention came when Mariam Nawaz traveled to Geneva in November 2024 for medical treatment during a period of intense smog in Punjab. Critics were outraged as the province was grappling with hazardous air pollution, and the Chief Minister was seen leaving the country in a special flight, accompanied by senior officials, including Minister of Environment Marium Aurangzeb and the Chief Secretary. Social media users also targeted Marium Aurangzeb, who was seen carrying two bags during the trip, amplifying the public’s frustration.

#### **China Visit Sparks Criticism**
Mariam Nawaz’s visit to China with provincial cabinet members was another controversial moment. While the trip resulted in several agreements for new projects in Punjab, the criticism stemmed from the fact that the Communist Party of China invited the *PML-N* as a party rather than the provincial government. Many saw this as an attempt at personal political promotion rather than fostering government-to-government cooperation.

#### **Wheat Purchase Disputes**
In another highly criticized move, the Punjab government decided not to purchase wheat from local farmers and reduced the price of wheat. This sparked protests from the farming community, although Mariam Nawaz stood firm on her decision. Ultimately, she succeeded in reducing the prices of essential food items like bread, semolina, and double roti, which earned her some public approval.

#### **Public Scrutiny Over Personal Expenses**
Mariam Nawaz faced criticism for her choice of clothing, especially in a time of rising inflation. Despite her spokesperson, Uzma Bukhari, defending her choice to wear reasonably priced suits, the public continued to scrutinize her wardrobe, especially after reports about expensive outfits and accessories. At a family wedding, where Mariam Nawaz was seen wearing high-end clothing and accessories, the backlash intensified.

### **Helicopter Use, Luxury Cars, and Personal Security**
Further fueling public discontent, Mariam Nawaz’s use of a helicopter for travel between her residence in Jati Umra and the Chief Minister’s House in Mall Road was widely criticized. The public was angered by the perceived extravagance and misuse of resources, particularly as this came in the context of a government focused on austerity. Additionally, after the Punjab government spent a significant sum on a bulletproof car for the Chief Minister, the public lashed out at the high cost of the vehicle’s tire replacement, which amounted to a staggering one crore rupees.

### **Nighaban Ramadan Package and Political Advertising**
Mariam Nawaz’s government faced another backlash when the *Nighaban Ramadan Package*, a welfare initiative to provide ration to citizens, featured an image of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Critics accused the government of using public funds for personal political promotion. After public outcry, the court intervened, and the government was directed to avoid such practices.

### **Police Uniform Controversy**
Mariam Nawaz also found herself at the center of a heated debate when she wore a police uniform on two occasions. Her action was challenged in court, with the police citing that the Governor of Punjab and the Chief Minister were allowed to wear the uniform as part of their official duties. This move sparked a flurry of discussions, with many questioning the appropriateness of the gesture.

### **Controversies in the Punjab Assembly**
Mariam Nawaz’s leadership was also called into question due to the behavior of some *PML-N* members in the provincial assembly. When MPA Malik Waheed forced an SHO (Station House Officer) to publicly apologize, it triggered widespread condemnation on social media. Although Mariam Nawaz issued a show-cause notice to the MPA, her handling of the situation continued to attract criticism. Similarly, another MPA, Uzma Kardar, was accused of torturing employees and subsequently handing them over to the police, which again drew public ire. Despite issuing a show-cause notice to Kardar as well, these incidents further tarnished her government’s image.

#### **Achaisan College Controversy**
The resignation of the Principal of Aitchison College, coupled with allegations of preferential treatment towards federal minister Ahad Cheema’s children regarding tuition fee waivers, also became a point of contention. Public protests and media scrutiny followed, further eroding the credibility of her administration.

### **Achievements: Major Development Projects**

Despite facing considerable opposition and personal criticisms, Mariam Nawaz’s government did not fall short in terms of development initiatives. She successfully launched over 80 major projects within Punjab, many of which were either completed or still under development. Some of her notable initiatives include:

1. **Nighaban Ramadan Package**: Aimed at delivering ration directly to the people’s doorsteps.
2. **Punjab Air Ambulance Service**: A vital service designed to offer emergency medical support across the province.
3. **Apna Ghar Apni Chhat Program**: A housing initiative to provide affordable homes to those in need.
4. **Solar Projects**: Solar energy initiatives were kicked off in rural areas, addressing energy shortages.
5. **Kisan Card Scheme**: To provide direct financial benefits to farmers.
6. **Health Reforms**: These included the launch of *Himmat Card* for healthcare, electric bikes for students, and free Wi-Fi projects across the province.
7. **Infrastructure Development**: Major road construction projects were initiated, alongside the *Nawaz Sharif IT City* and the *Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital*.

These projects reflect the government’s commitment to long-term infrastructural and welfare improvements despite the criticism that often overshadowed Mariam Nawaz’s leadership.

### **Conclusion**

In her first year as Chief Minister of Punjab, Mariam Nawaz’s tenure was a mix of political controversies, public criticisms, and significant development work. While she successfully launched numerous projects aimed at improving the province’s infrastructure, healthcare, and welfare systems, her leadership was repeatedly questioned due to her personal actions and decisions that sparked outrage among the public. How she navigates these challenges in the coming year will likely define her legacy as Punjab’s leader.