ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – Pakistan’s new parliament met for the first time on Monday, after pressure had been put on President Pervez Musharraf to set a date (see Impunity Watch article here).  The new parliament, filled with a majority of opposition members, is expected to take major steps to make change in the country in resistance of President Musharraf.

During a meeting today, Fahmida Mirza was elected speaker of the parliament.  Mirza is a business woman, veteran politician, and friend of Asif Ali Zardari (the current leader of the Pakistan People’s Party and the Benazir Bhutto‘s widower).  She is the first woman to ever be elected Pakistani speaker.

Mirza was elected with 249 votes in the 342-seat house.  As speaker she will determine which issues the new parliament, which met for the first time Monday, will address in session.

The Prime Minister has yet to be named, and an announcement is expected next week.

For more information, please see:

BBC News – Woman elected Pakistani speaker – 19 March 2008

Impunity Watch – BRIEF: After Many Protests, Pakistani President Sets Date for Parliament – 11 March 2008