Irfan Siddiqui
Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) Senator Irfan Siddiqui has made startling claims, alleging that former Army Chief General (retd) Raheel Sharif sought an extension of his tenure as army chief in exchange for relief in the Panama Papers case from then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.
In an exclusive interview, Siddiqui revealed that Raheel Sharif had approached Nawaz Sharif multiple times requesting an extension.
One notable instance occurred at a meeting in Raiwind shortly after the funeral of renowned social worker Abdul Sattar Edhi.
At this gathering, a senior PML-N leader conveyed Raheel Sharif’s message regarding the delay in extending his tenure.
According to Siddiqui, Nawaz Sharif countered Raheel Sharif’s request by proposing alternative solutions, including appointing him as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee or extending the tenures of the other service chiefs to avoid singling out Raheel Sharif.
Additionally, Raheel Sharif reportedly suggested being promoted to the rank of Field Marshal to extend his tenure as army chief. However, Nawaz Sharif did not accept any of these proposals.
Siddiqui further claimed that Raheel Sharif offered Nawaz Sharif relief in the Panama Leaks case in exchange for settling the extension issue.
However, Nawaz Sharif viewed this offer as a greater humiliation than facing consequences in the case itself. Subsequently, Nawaz Sharif allegedly faced threats of martial law.
Discussing the dynamics with the succeeding army chief, General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa, Siddiqui suggested that tensions escalated similarly to those with Raheel Sharif.
He speculated that Bajwa could have mitigated these tensions but opted for what Siddiqui termed as an “easy way” for himself.
Addressing conspiracy theories surrounding Nawaz Sharif’s decision not to become Prime Minister again, Siddiqui emphasized that it was Nawaz Sharif’s personal choice and not influenced by electoral outcomes.
He asserted Nawaz Sharif’s continued influence as the “supreme leader and decision maker” within Pakistan, commanding both his political party and the largest province.
In conclusion, Siddiqui’s revelations provide a glimpse into the complex interplay between military leadership and civilian governance in Pakistan, highlighting significant moments of contention and negotiation during Nawaz Sharif’s tenure as Prime Minister.
I am a dynamic professional, specializing in Peace and Conflict Studies, Conflict Management and Resolution, and International Relations. My expertise is particularly focused on South Asian Conflicts and the intricacies of the Indian Ocean and Asia Pacific Politics. With my skills as a Content Writer, I serve as a bridge between academia and the public, translating complex global issues into accessible narratives. My passion for fostering understanding and cooperation on the national and international stage drives me to make meaningful contributions to peace and global discourse.
