Nawaz can run PML-N from behind bars: PM Abbasi

Says ECP to take decision on caretaker set-up if government and opposition fail to reach consensus

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said that if Nawaz Sharif was jailed, he would lead Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) from behind bars.

In an interview with a private media outlet, PM Abbasi said that rumours and speculations of Nawaz being jailed are based on assumptions, but that even if the former premier is to go there, he will regulate and decide on PML-N’s policies from there.

“He controlled and ran the party during the reign of Pervez Musharraf as well, people have won elections while in prison,” he said.

He further added that such decisions will not stop Nawaz’s political career or involvement in politics, “neither did his political career end during the army’s reign, neither will it diminish now.”



During the interview, PM Abbasi said efforts are underway to install a consensus caretaker set-up after the present government completes its tenure. However, if the efforts failed the matter will go to the Election Commission of Pakistan.

The PM also mentioned the role of the opposition particularly Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in the recent elections of chairman and deputy chairman of Senate, stating there could be some problems in reaching consensus over the caretaker set-up.

The premier answering a question, also stated that did not see any clash among the institutions as the PML-N government is set to complete its constitutional term after two months, paving way for general elections to be held within 60 days.

To another question, he said there is “a need for dialogue among the institutions to take the country forward and strengthen institutions.”
Shedding light on the 18th Constitutional Amendment, the PM said there were some problems in its interpretation and implementation, but that these issues were being discussed and resolved through the mechanism of the Council of Common Interests.