To prepare for the upcoming elections in Pakistan, the business community in Karachi, the country’s largest city, is adopting a different approach this time. Instead of merely financially supporting political candidates, many businessmen and their children are joining the election race directly. Some are siding with established political parties while others are running as independent candidates relying on their existing local popularity.
Barrister Mujtaba Sim Sim, 25, is one of the youngest independent candidates from Sindh Assembly constituency PS 101, representing constituencies like Bahadurabad and Gulshan Iqbal. They emphasize commitment to work for the people and not indulge in corrupt practices.
Mr. Sim Sim is the son of the current Association of Builders and Developers (ABAD) Chairman Asif Sim Sim, who has been running a reputed construction company for over 25 years.
“Many people also ask how an independent candidate will bring change in the stereotypical system,” says Mujtaba Sim Sim.
He added that he does not intend to earn money from contracts and projects that candidates get for their constituencies after being elected.
“My aim is to work for the people,” says the young candidate.
Former chairman of Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) Farazur Rehman is contesting as an independent in NA-233 and NA-234. They aim to address the grievances of both the public and the industry, emphasize the need for practical results and focus on the welfare of the deserving people.
Farazur Rehman is the son of Fazlur Rehman who founded KATI in 1974. His company MY Group is involved in construction, textile, shipping and logistics business.
Karachi Electronic Dealers Association (KEDA) President Mohammad Rizwan Irfan is the PPP-backed candidate for PS-130.
He plans to focus on improving water supply, sewerage and road infrastructure in his region, citing the historic role of the People’s Party in the Sindh government as the reason for his commitment.
All City Tajer Ittehad (ACTI) president Sharjeel Gopalani is contesting from Lyari as a Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) candidate from NA-239. He highlights the involvement of small and medium entrepreneurs in solving local problems and vows to make Lyari a “drug-free zone” through various initiatives if elected.