PERFORMATIVITY AND GENDERING ROLES: A CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF MARIAM NAWAZ'S SPEECHES AS THE FIRST FEMALE CHIEF MINISTER OF PUNJAB

Abstract

This study examines the performativity of Mariam Nawaz Sharif's roles as the first female Chief Minister of Punjab, exploring how she navigates standard gender roles and challenges patriarchal norms. Aiming to analyze the linguistic and discursive strategies employed by Mariam Nawaz to perform power and gender, this research addresses the problem statement of how female leaders negotiate complex power dynamics in patriarchal societies. Guided by the research questions of how Mariam Nawaz performs gender, challenges traditional gender norms, and navigates power dynamics, this study draws on Judith Butler's performativity theory and employs a qualitative method with thematic analysis, situated within a constructivist paradigm. Building on existing literature, this research identifies gaps in understanding the performativity of female leaders in patriarchal societies. Analyzing 15 selected themes from Mariam Nawaz's speeches and public statements, the findings reveal how she employs linguistic and discursive strategies to perform gender, challenge traditional norms, and navigate power dynamics. The results provide insights into the complex dynamics of gender, power, and performativity, highlighting the significance of language and discourse in shaping our understanding of female leadership. Future recommendations include exploring the impact of Mariam Nawaz's performativity on her audience and the broader sociopolitical context.