Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has returned to Pakistan after four years of self-imposed exile. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo’s return comes after he was granted protective bail in graft cases against him, and an accountability court decided to suspend his arrest warrant.
Nawaz Sharif expressed his joy before boarding a flight from Dubai, saying, “Today I am going to Pakistan after four years, and I am feeling very happy with the grace of Allah. It would be great if the situation in Pakistan was better today than it was in 2017.” His return is accompanied by considerable excitement within the PML-N, which has made elaborate arrangements for a grand reception in Lahore.
The timing of Nawaz Sharif’s return is significant, as Pakistan is gearing up for general elections in January 2024. His younger brother, Shehbaz Sharif, served as Prime Minister from 2022 until earlier this year, after which the Parliament was dissolved, and a caretaker Prime Minister took over ahead of the upcoming elections.
Nawaz Sharif’s political journey has been marked by highs and lows. He first came to power in 2013, and initially, it appeared that he might become the first Prime Minister of Pakistan to complete a full term. However, his tenure was marred by political upheavals, including an opposition-led blockade in Islamabad. As his relationship with the powerful Pakistan Army shifted, Nawaz Sharif was ousted from his post on corruption charges, opening the door for Imran Khan to assume leadership.
After facing years of legal battles and multiple convictions, Nawaz Sharif managed to leave the country on medical grounds. The Pakistani courts repeatedly called for his surrender, but the former Prime Minister remained at large until the Pakistan Army grew dissatisfied with Imran Khan’s leadership, leading to his brother’s ascent to power.
Nawaz Sharif’s return to Pakistan rekindles the political landscape, and his presence is likely to impact the upcoming general elections in January 2024. As the political dynamics continue to evolve, the PML-N and its supporters eagerly await the next chapter in Pakistan’s political saga.