ISLAMADAD, PAKISTAN: With promise to alleviate poverty, Pakistan MPs seemed to be in another world, journalists observed during the opening of the parliament on 19 Mar, as Guccis were paraded like it was a scene in Hollywood’s red carpet premiere.

Journalists observed that only one of the 74 women in the 342-seat House covered her face with a light beige wrap, indicating that black veils were definitely out. Others wore traditional flowing gowns, some with bare heads and some with their hair only partially covered by loose scarves.

Taking office as the first woman speaker of Pakistan’s National Assembly, Fehmida Mirza, wearing pearl droplet earrings, a diamond nose ring and an elegant lavender tunic, led the pack.

Many male lawmakers arrived in designer clothing.

Observers said the new MPS are richer and more secular and the ostentatious display of wealth casts doubt on their intention to serve the people of Pakistan. (Asia News Network/ AsiaNews)