Babar Saleem Khan Swati, the recently appointed Speaker of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Assembly, carries the weight of a rich lineage, being a descendant of the Jehangiri family that has historically ruled over Mansehra. Endowed with historical wisdom, extensive experience, and political acumen, Swati, a member of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), contested the February 8, 2024, general elections as an independent candidate supported by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Born on June 3, 1962, Swati’s roots trace back to the powerful Jehangiri family of the Swati clan in Mansehra. His ancestry includes Sultan Jehangir Gabri, the ruler of the Sultanate of Swat, and he is the grandson of Jageerdar Jummah Khan Swati, the fourth “Khan of Mansehra City” during British Rule, and the great-grandson of Jageerdar Zaman Khan Swati, the third inherited “Khan of Mansehra” during Sikh rule.
Educated at Islamia Public School, Mansehra, and Edwards College, Swati excelled in his studies, earning a BS (Hons) degree in Geology from the University of Peshawar.
Swati’s political journey encompasses various leadership roles, including serving as PTI’s district and regional president for the Hazara Region. He also held executive positions in Pakistan State Oil and played a crucial administrative role in an organization dedicated to the development of tribal areas.
In 2011, Swati ventured into local body elections and secured the position of Union Council Nazim. Following a stint with the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), he joined PTI in the 2018 general elections, winning a provincial seat and later serving as an advisor to the interior/home minister.
In the recent February 8 general elections, Swati emerged victorious as a PTI-backed independent candidate for the provincial seat KP-37 Mansehra. Defeating PML-N’s Sardar Zahoor Ahmed, his triumph reflects his dedication to public service and political resilience, shaping the political landscape of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Swati’s political ascent, coupled with the enduring legacy of his ancestry, places a responsibility on his shoulders. The faith of his electorate in him and his commitment to the development of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be crucial in determining the region’s future under his leadership.
