Islamabad, 29 April 2025: Two women of Pakistani heritage, Iqra Khalid and Salma Zahid, have secured their positions once again in Canada’s Parliament, underscoring the growing presence and influence of Pakistani-Canadians in the country’s political landscape.
Iqra Khalid, representing the Liberal Party, earned her fourth consecutive victory in the Mississauga—Erin Mills constituency.
She maintained a comfortable lead of over 5,000 votes against her nearest rival.
Following the result, Khalid was seen embracing her father as supporters celebrated the win — a moment reflecting both personal and community pride.
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Khalid’s journey from Pakistan to Parliament began in 1998 when she moved to Canada with her family. She pursued criminology at York University and later completed a law degree from the University of Michigan.
In Parliament, she has chaired the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights and played a key role in tabling Motion 103, which called for a nationwide approach to tackling systemic racism and religious discrimination.
Khalid has regularly acknowledged her Pakistani roots as a driving force behind her work in promoting equity and justice.
Meanwhile, fellow Liberal MP Salma Zahid secured her seat in the Scarborough Centre—Don Valley East riding, garnering approximately 21,000 votes.
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Zahid was first elected in 2015 and has since become a vocal supporter of minority rights and multiculturalism.
Her educational background includes an MBA from Quaid-e-Azam University and a Master’s degree from the University of London.
Before entering the political arena, Zahid served in Ontario’s civil service and worked as a community organiser, focusing on women and youth empowerment.
In Parliament, she has raised concerns over global human rights issues, including the plight of the Rohingya Muslims, and actively supported the Canada-Palestine Parliamentary Friendship Group.
Their re-election marks a significant moment for the Pakistani diaspora in Canada, reinforcing their contribution to the country’s social and political fabric.
