Shehbaz believes Nawaz will reshape Pakistan

Prays for elder brother’s fourth PM term; fights off criticism of Ishaq Dar; says critics have no place in party

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his strong desire for the return of his elder brother, former premier Nawaz Sharif, to lead the country as prime minister for the fourth time.

Speaking after his re-election as the president of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) at the party’s General Council meeting, he prayed for Nawaz's early return from London, where he has been residing since November 2019.

Shehbaz stated his willingness to work as one of his brother's dedicated workers, emphasizing that Nawaz, whom he referred to as an architect of Pakistan, has the potential to once again transform the country's fortunes. Shehbaz credited Nawaz's previous tenures as prime minister for significant achievements, such as resolving energy shortages, developing infrastructure, and fostering growth in agriculture, industry, and other vital sectors of the economy.

Nawaz was granted permission to leave the country in November 2019 on medical grounds due to an immune system disorder. His deteriorating condition despite treatment in Pakistan prompted doctors to recommend medical treatment abroad. During his time in custody for corruption charges related to the Al-Azizia case, Nawaz was rushed to Services Hospital from Kot Lakhpat Jail on one occasion.

In his speech, PM Shehbaz said that he would hand over the party’s presidentship to Nawaz once he returns to Pakistan. Later, in a tweet, PM Shehbaz thanked Nawaz, party leaders, office-bearers and workers for electing him for the presidency of the party by expressing their confidence in him.

Under the leadership of Nawaz, PM Shehbaz highlighted that the PML-N has consistently proven itself as the sole federal party capable of navigating the country out of various challenges and crises.

Shehbaz emphasized the enduring bond between party workers, the leadership, and the unwavering support of the public, which has enabled the PML-N to resurface with even greater resilience each time it faced suppression or setbacks.

“Today,” he stated in a tweet, “my determination to serve this country has become stronger”. He added that he wanted to always be remembered as a dedicated worker of PML-N supremo Nawaz as he spent all his energy, skills and abilities in the service of Pakistan and its people.

During his speech, PM Shehbaz robustly mounted defence of Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, stating that he tirelessly dedicated himself to resolving the country's economic crises. Shehbaz addressed the criticism faced by Dar regarding the International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal, firmly stating that those who criticize Dar have no place within the party.

Also, PM lauded his niece and PML-N’s Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz for courageously leading the party all across Pakistan despite all the difficulties that came in her way. He said that 60 percent of the population of the country is youth and PML-N needed young leaders for the future.

He also appreciated party leadership and workers for standing by the party despite going through hardships in jails and facing difficulties, saying that they stood their ground and faced oppression and suffering with courage and determination.

After coming into power, PM Shehbaz said that he along with his party burned the political capital but made utmost efforts to save the state instead of doing politics, adding that it was not an easy decision given the deteriorating economic situation exacerbated by rising inflation and global increase in the prices of petroleum products and commodities.

“We did not give up,” the PM said, adding that the coalition government had decided that it would fight under Nawaz Sharif’s leadership despite the tough economic conditions. Despite severe economic constraints, he said, the government increased salaries of the government employees.

The premier said that he has come back from Azerbaijan on June 15 after signing an agreement for importing LNG on the heels of getting cheap oil from Russia.
Questioning ex-premier Imran Khan’s move to build a narrative on cipher as well as calling the incumbent government an “imported government”, the PM asked how come cheap oil has come from Russia if his allegations were true. He accused Imran of spreading fake information and misleading people for his ulterior motives.

Earlier, PM Shehbaz was elected unopposed as the president of PML-N and Maryam as senior vice president and chief organiser of the party. They were elected in the intra-party elections held during the General Council meeting of the PML-N at the party’s secretariat in Islamabad. The meeting was chaired by PML-N supremo Nawaz via video link and PML-N President Shehbaz.

Federal Minster for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal was elected as PML-N General Secretary and Special Assistant to the PM Attaullah Tarar his deputy, while Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb as information secretary. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar was elected as the president of overseas and international affairs.