Maryam Nawaz Reveals Military Role in Nawaz Sharif’s Return

Maryam Nawaz Reveals Military Role in Nawaz Sharif’s Return

Maryam Nawaz Reveals Military Role in Nawaz Sharif’s Return

Maryam Nawaz, daughter of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, publicly acknowledged that Pakistan’s military establishment brought her father back from his self-imposed exile in the UK. The revelation came during a rally at Nankana Sahib, ahead of the general election on February 8. Nawaz Sharif, a three-time prime minister, returned to Pakistan in October last year amid speculation of military backing. Maryam Nawaz’s statement is the first time a member of the Sharif family confirmed the military’s involvement in his return.

Military’s Role in Sharif’s Return Confirmed

While addressing the rally, Maryam Nawaz stated, “Those (military establishment) who ousted Nawaz Sharif have brought him back.” This revelation adds a new dimension to the political landscape, as Nawaz Sharif’s party, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), is considered a frontrunner in the upcoming polls, with some opposition parties terming him a ‘Laadla’ (favourite) of the establishment.

Political Dynamics and Election Speculation

Political analysts had previously described Nawaz Sharif’s return as facilitated by the military establishment. The term ‘Laadla’ has been associated with Sharif, suggesting his favored status with the establishment. However, this disclosure from Maryam Nawaz offers explicit confirmation of the military’s role in bringing Nawaz Sharif back to Pakistan.

Opposition Allegations and Counterclaims

Opposition parties, including Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), have alleged that Nawaz Sharif returned under a deal with the military. Sharif’s party rejects these claims. The PTI maintains the ‘London Plan’ theory, asserting that Sharif returned after an understanding with the military, leading to PTI’s downfall and government handover to Sharif.

Sharif’s Political Aspirations and System Overhaul

Nawaz Sharif, addressing the rally, declared his intention to overhaul Pakistan’s political system, emphasizing the need for public support. He criticized Imran Khan, claiming to be a “local” prime minister and questioning the circumstances of his removal. Sharif’s return has seen relief from various legal challenges, raising questions about the political dynamics and potential shifts leading up to the elections.