After a hiatus of seven years, Nawaz Sharif, the three-time former prime minister of Pakistan, is poised to reassume leadership of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). At the forefront of the decision-making process is the aim to navigate the party through internal conflicts that have arisen in recent times.
Resurgence of Nawaz Sharif
Nawaz Sharif, aged 74, is slated to be elected as the president of PML-N on May 11, as confirmed by a senior party leader. This move marks a significant turnaround since Nawaz was disqualified from his position as premier and party president by the Supreme Court of Pakistan in 2017 due to alleged corruption linked to the Panama Papers scandal. His subsequent departure from both roles was a result of this legal setback.
However, in light of recent developments, the PML-N has rallied behind Nawaz Sharif’s leadership once again. The decision to reinstate him as party president was made during a meeting attended by prominent party members, including Rana Sanaullah, the PML-N Punjab president.
Challenges and Reconciliation
The decision to reinstall Nawaz Sharif at the helm of PML-N comes amidst internal tensions within the party, particularly in Punjab and at the federal level. Public criticisms from key figures within the party regarding cabinet formations and the party’s alignment with the establishment have contributed to a sense of disillusionment and tarnished the party’s reputation as a proponent of democracy.
Nevertheless, proponents of Nawaz Sharif’s return argue that his acquittal in corruption cases, coupled with his extensive experience in governance, makes him the ideal candidate to steer the party forward. They envision a reorganized party under Nawaz’s leadership, aimed at addressing internal strife and realigning with the core principles of the PML-N.
Political Landscape and Future Prospects
Nawaz Sharif’s resurgence in Pakistani politics follows his return to the country after a four-year self-exile in London, during which he received a clean chit in mega corruption cases. While his return initially signaled the possibility of a fourth term as prime minister, the PML-N failed to secure a clear majority in the National Assembly during the recent general elections.
Consequently, Nawaz Sharif endorsed his younger brother, Shehbaz Sharif, as the incumbent party president, leading a six-party coalition government at the Centre. Shehbaz, considered favorably by the military establishment, assumed leadership, albeit under the shadow of Nawaz’s influence and guidance.
As Nawaz Sharif prepares to assume the presidency of PML-N once more, the political landscape of Pakistan stands at a critical juncture. His return signifies a potential realignment within the party and sets the stage for renewed efforts to address internal conflicts and pursue the party’s agenda in line with democratic principles.
Nawaz Sharif’s impending return to the presidency of PML-N reflects a strategic move to navigate the party through internal strife and realign its political trajectory. With challenges abound, the resurgence of Nawaz Sharif signals a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s political landscape, with implications that extend beyond party lines.
