Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to Make Dramatic Return to Pakistan, Vows to Win Back Power in Upcoming Elections

Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is set to return to Pakistan on October 21 after a four-year self-imposed exile. He expressed his excitement to lead his political party, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), in the upcoming elections in January 2024. Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi confirmed that Nawaz had obtained permission from the court and former government to go abroad, dispelling rumors of a jailbreak.

The minister also stated that Nawaz's legal status upon his return would be determined by the law and constitution of Pakistan. Nawaz had previously stepped down as prime minister in 2017 due to a Supreme Court ruling disqualifying him for life for not declaring a receivable salary. Since then, he has been residing in London for medical treatment, granted permission by the Lahore High Court. However, in 2020, an accountability court labeled him a proclaimed offender and accused him of obtaining luxury cars from the treasury house at a discounted price.

The Election Commission of Pakistan has been entrusted with ensuring free, fair, transparent, and impartial elections, and the caretaker government will play its part in conducting these elections. Delimitation of constituencies is expected to be completed by November 30, with the final election date to be announced thereafter. Nawaz's return marks a significant development in Pakistani politics as he aims to reclaim his role as a influential leader and contender in the upcoming elections.