Shehbaz Sharif Consults with Nawaz Sharif on PML-N’s Political Course

Former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s arrival in London on Sunday has stirred anticipation, marking a significant visit where the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is poised to strategize on their electoral campaign and the potential return of party leader Nawaz Sharif.

This visit marks Shehbaz Sharif’s initial trip to the UK following the conclusion of his 16 month tenure in government earlier this month. Accompanying him is his son, Salman Shehbaz, as they embark on this important journey.

Reports from within the party indicate that Shehbaz Sharif will engage in crucial discussions with PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif while in London. Additional meetings with prominent party leaders are scheduled, adding to the gravity of the visit.

Notable former federal ministers have already assembled in London, anticipating significant discussions within the party’s leadership concerning Nawaz Sharif’s potential return to Pakistan. The party’s legal team is also expected to participate, addressing the legal difficulties surrounding Nawaz Sharif’s situation.

On August 9th, Shehbaz Sharif conveyed that Nawaz Sharif is set to return to Pakistan in September. He shared his intention to consult extensively with his elder brother during his London trip, underscoring Nawaz’s commitment to face legal proceedings and lead the party’s election campaign.

Nawaz Sharif, who has been in self-imposed exile in London since November 2019 for medical reasons, faces a complex legal landscape following his conviction by an accountability court in corruption cases. Appeals against these convictions are presently awaiting judicial consideration.

PML-N leaders have expressed reservations regarding the conduct of the judiciary, emphasizing the precariousness of Nawaz Sharif’s potential return in the current climate.

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Recent developments include a Supreme Court ruling deeming the Supreme Court Act 2023 unconstitutional. This ruling affects both Nawaz Sharif and another prominent leader, Jahangir Tareen, who were previously disqualified under Article 62 of the Constitution. This verdict has implications for their political aspirations in light of the upcoming general elections.

As Shehbaz Sharif engages in these pivotal discussions in London, the political landscape of Pakistan holds its collective breath, awaiting the outcomes that could shape the trajectory of the PML-N’s electoral strategy and the eventual return of Nawaz Sharif.