Nawaz Sharif Set to Make Power Move: Plans Return to Pakistan from Exile in October
Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif is set to return to Pakistan on October 15 after delaying his return due to weather conditions and political dynamics within the country.
Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif is planning to return to Pakistan from his self-imposed exile in London on October 15, according to sources within his family. The mid-October date was decided upon by Nawaz, his brother Shehbaz, and other close family members during their discussions in London. Initially, it was announced that Nawaz would return in September to face pending court cases and lead the party's campaign for the general election. However, the plan was changed due to the Election Commission of Pakistan's decision to conduct a fresh delimitation of constituencies, delaying the general elections scheduled to be held within 90 days of the Parliament's dissolution.
Nawaz sharif will return Pakistan in October , says Shejbaz Sharif#NawazSharif #Shehbazsharif pic.twitter.com/6C954in24C
— Shehzad Qureshi (@ShehxadGulHasen) August 25, 2023
Party loyalists advised against a September return, citing the severe weather and the risk of large-scale political gatherings. The decision to return in mid-October took into account the weather conditions, although there may still be further discussions and potential changes to the date. Some members of the Sharif family suggested Nawaz return immediately after his Europe and Middle East visit, while others recommended waiting until after the retirement of Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Atta Bandial, who is accused by the PML-N party of favoring Imran Khan and his party, Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Nawaz accused Bandial of attempting to save Imran Khan after he criticized the conviction of the former prime minister in the Toshakhana corruption case. The Toshakhana case was filed by ruling party lawmakers, alleging that Khan concealed the proceeds from the sale of state gifts. In 2016, Nawaz stepped down as prime minister following a Supreme Court verdict disqualifying him for life for concealing assets. His appeals against the conviction are currently pending. Overall, the decision to delay Nawaz Sharif's return reflects careful consideration of various factors, including weather conditions and political dynamics in Pakistan.
