Introduction
Dr. Yasmin Rashid is a name that resonates with courage, dedication, and resilience in Pakistan. A renowned gynecologist, a passionate politician, and a senior leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), she has left an indelible mark on both healthcare and politics in Punjab. Known for her tireless work as Punjab’s Health Minister and her unwavering loyalty to PTI, Dr. Rashid is a role model for many, especially women, in Pakistan. Whether it’s fighting for better healthcare or standing firm in the face of political challenges, her journey is nothing short of inspiring.
In this article, we’ll dive into Dr. Yasmin Rashid’s life, from her early days to her rise as a political powerhouse. We’ll explore her contributions to healthcare, her role in PTI, and the latest news surrounding her in 2024-2025. Let’s get started!
Early Life and Education
Born on September 21, 1950, in Chakwal, Punjab, Yasmin Rashid grew up in a small village called Neela. Her early life was shaped by modest surroundings, but her determination to succeed was evident from a young age. She completed her early education in Chakwal before moving to Lahore, where she attended the prestigious Convent of Jesus and Mary school. This move to Lahore marked the beginning of her journey toward academic excellence.
Yasmin’s passion for medicine led her to King Edward Medical University, one of Pakistan’s top medical institutions. She pursued a degree in medicine and specialized in gynecology, a field where she would later make significant contributions. Her academic journey didn’t stop there—she also earned qualifications abroad, enhancing her expertise and gaining a global perspective on healthcare. Her education laid a strong foundation for her career as a doctor and her later work in public health reform.
Medical Career and Social Work
Before stepping into politics, Dr. Yasmin Rashid was a celebrated gynecologist. She served as the head of the obstetrics and gynecology department at King Edward Medical University and worked at other renowned institutions like Rawalpindi Medical University, Fatima Jinnah Medical University, and Central Park Medical College. Her work focused on improving women’s health, a cause she championed throughout her career.
Dr. Rashid wasn’t just a doctor; she was a leader in the medical community. From 1998 to 2000, she served as the President of the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), and from 2008 to 2010, she led its Lahore chapter. She also chaired the Task Force for Women Development and the Women Health Committee in Punjab, advocating for better healthcare access for women. Her efforts in public health and women’s rights earned her widespread respect and set the stage for her political career.
Key Contributions in Healthcare
- Improved Maternal Care: Advocated for better facilities for pregnant women in Punjab’s hospitals.
- Public Health Awareness: Launched campaigns to educate women about reproductive health.
- Leadership in PMA: Strengthened the medical community’s role in policy advocacy.
Political Career
Dr. Yasmin Rashid entered politics in 2010, inspired by her father-in-law to join Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), a party led by Imran Khan. Her entry into politics marked a new chapter in her life, blending her medical expertise with a passion for public service. She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a senior leader and a trusted voice in PTI.
Electoral Journey
Dr. Rashid has contested several elections, primarily in Lahore, where she challenged prominent figures like Nawaz Sharif. In the 2018 general elections, she ran for the NA-125 constituency but didn’t secure a win. In 2024, she contested NA-130 against Nawaz Sharif, securing over 113,000 votes but losing to Sharif’s 172,000. Despite these losses, her campaigns showcased her popularity and determination.
Role in PTI
In 2022, Dr. Rashid was appointed President of PTI’s Central Punjab chapter, a testament to her leadership. She has been a vocal supporter of Imran Khan, emphasizing party unity and advocating for PTI’s vision of a corruption-free Pakistan. Her role as a senior leader has made her a key figure in PTI’s strategy in Punjab, Pakistan’s most populous province.
Punjab Health Minister
From August 2018 to 2022, Dr. Rashid served as Punjab’s Provincial Minister for Primary & Secondary Healthcare and Specialized Healthcare & Medical Education. During her tenure, she introduced significant reforms to improve Punjab’s healthcare system. Her work focused on expanding hospital infrastructure, ensuring access to critical equipment, and streamlining healthcare services.
Key Achievements
Dr. Yasmin Rashid’s tenure as Health Minister was marked by transformative changes in Punjab’s healthcare landscape. Here are some of her standout achievements:
Healthcare Infrastructure
- Expanded Facilities: Increased the number of beds, high-dependency units, and ventilators in Punjab’s hospitals.
- Ambulance Services: Introduced ambulance services for incapacitated patients, making healthcare more accessible.
- Vaccination Centers: Streamlined vaccination processes, earning praise for their efficiency and simplicity.
COVID-19 Response
Dr. Rashid played a pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic. She was at the forefront of Punjab’s response, ensuring hospitals were equipped to handle the crisis. Her efforts were recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2021, which named her among great women leaders in the fight against COVID-19. Despite battling cancer herself in 2020, she continued to work tirelessly, earning admiration for her resilience.
Public Health Campaigns
- Launched awareness drives for maternal and child health.
- Promoted vaccination campaigns to combat diseases like polio and measles.
- Strengthened primary healthcare centers in rural areas.
Comparison Table: Yasmin Rashid’s Key Reforms vs. Pre-2018 Healthcare
| Aspect | Pre-2018 Healthcare System | Post-2018 Reforms (Yasmin Rashid) |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital Beds | Limited availability | Increased beds and ICU units |
| Vaccination Access | Slow and disorganized | Streamlined, user-friendly centers |
| Emergency Services | Inadequate ambulances | Dedicated ambulance services |
| Maternal Care | Underfunded facilities | Improved maternal health programs |
Controversies and Challenges
Dr. Yasmin Rashid’s political journey hasn’t been without challenges. As a prominent PTI leader, she has faced legal and political hurdles, particularly in recent years.
Legal Issues
Dr. Rashid has been arrested multiple times, often in connection with PTI’s protests. In May 2023, she was apprehended following violent protests linked to the Al-Qadir Trust case involving Imran Khan. In January 2025, she was indicted in a case related to an attack on a PML-N office, alongside other PTI leaders. These legal battles have kept her in the spotlight, with supporters viewing her as a target of political victimization.
Health Struggles
In 2024, Dr. Rashid faced health challenges, including high blood pressure and dehydration, leading to hospitalizations. Despite these setbacks, she continued to voice her concerns about Pakistan’s political situation, even from jail. In April 2025, she wrote an open letter from Kot Lakhpat Jail, criticizing the government’s handling of protests and human rights issues.
Party-Level Controversies
As a PTI leader, Dr. Rashid has been associated with the party’s broader struggles, including allegations of electoral fraud in 2024 and crackdowns on PTI workers. She has publicly condemned the government for human rights violations, particularly in Punjab, and demanded accountability.
Personal Traits and Public Perception
Dr. Yasmin Rashid is widely admired for her integrity, professionalism, and resilience. Known for her straightforward approach, she has earned respect from both PTI supporters and opponents. Her ability to balance a demanding medical career with a turbulent political life showcases her dedication. Even during her battle with cancer in 2020, she continued her duties as Health Minister, inspiring many with her work ethic.
Media outlets, such as Gulf News, have praised her as a “woman of courage” for her principled stance and no-nonsense attitude. Among PTI supporters, she is seen as a symbol of resistance against political oppression, especially given her repeated arrests and legal battles. Her public image is one of a determined leader who fights for justice and better healthcare.
Latest News and Developments (2024–2025)
In 2024 and 2025, Dr. Yasmin Rashid remained a prominent figure in PTI’s activities. Despite facing health issues and legal challenges, she continued to speak out against the government. Here are the latest updates:
- Health Updates: In July 2024, Dr. Rashid was hospitalized at Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital due to deteriorating health but was discharged after treatment. Posts on X in June 2025 raised concerns about her condition, alleging that she was denied oxygen and electricity in jail, highlighting the harsh conditions faced by PTI leaders.
- Legal Battles: In January 2025, she was indicted in a case related to the May 9, 2023, vandalism incidents. She also criticized the government’s actions at the UN Human Rights Council in March 2025, demanding action against false claims by officials.
- Political Activism: Her open letter from jail in April 2025 condemned the government’s focus on power retention over public welfare, drawing attention to protests in Gilgit-Baltistan and human rights violations in Punjab.
- PTI Leadership: Dr. Rashid remains a key figure in PTI, with posts on X emphasizing her role in rallying support for the party’s cause. She continues to advocate for Imran Khan’s release and fair elections.