Election Campaign
LAHORE: Three-time former Prime Minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif is set to take the lead in his party’s election campaign, which is scheduled to commence on November 10, in preparation for the upcoming general elections in Pakistan.
Nawaz Sharif made a remarkable return to Pakistan on October 21, ending his self-imposed exile, which had lasted for four years. His return was marked by a grand and enthusiastic welcome organized by the party at Lahore’s historic Minar-e-Pakistan. This significant development has reignited the political landscape in Pakistan and injected fresh energy into the PML-N.
Sources within the party have revealed that Nawaz Sharif will play a pivotal role in overseeing the PML-N’s parliamentary board, which is responsible for the distribution of election tickets. He will also lead the party’s election campaign through a series of nationwide tours, rallying support and connecting with the electorate.
During a recent meeting held at his Jati Umra residence, Nawaz Sharif expressed his vision for the future, stating, “We will strengthen judicial institutions if we come into power.” This declaration underscores the PML-N’s commitment to the rule of law and an independent judiciary.
Additionally, PML-N’s General Secretary, Ashan Iqbal, reiterated the party’s aspiration for Nawaz Sharif to reclaim the position of the country’s prime minister. He emphasized the injustice faced by Nawaz Sharif, noting that he was ousted from electoral politics through a coordinated conspiracy and baseless legal cases.
The PML-N meeting convened at Jati Umra was not solely focused on election preparations. It also delved into the current political climate, the upcoming general elections, and the formulation of the party’s comprehensive manifesto.
It is important to note that Nawaz Sharif’s return to Pakistan has garnered mixed reactions, with his political opponents, particularly the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), accusing him of receiving “undue relief” in connection to various legal cases.
Since his return, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has reinstated Nawaz’s appeals against his conviction in the Avenfield and Al-Azizia cases by accountability courts. Furthermore, the Punjab government suspended Nawaz’s conviction in the Al-Azizia reference, which has generated considerable debate and controversy in the political arena.
Nawaz Sharif’s leadership in the PML-N’s election campaign starting November 10 is expected to bring new vigor to the party and intensify the political competition in the lead-up to the general elections. His return has undeniably reshaped the dynamics of Pakistan’s political landscape, setting the stage for a significant and closely watched electoral showdown.
