Shehbaz steps down as PML-N president

PM says it’s time for Nawaz to resume leadership and guide party as per his vision

LAHORE:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stepped down as the president of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Monday, paving the way for party supremo and three times former premier Nawaz Sharif to be elected as the party head.

Senior PML-leader Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed the news in a post on X that had also attached the letter of prime minister’s resignation addressed to PML-N Secretary General and Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal. A meeting of the party's Central Committee had been called on May 18.

“Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has resigned from the presidency of Pakistan Muslim League (N),” Aurangzeb said in her tweet, adding that Shehbaz said that he was returning the party leadership to his leader to guide the country and the party with his vision.

Shehbaz was formally elected PML-N president in March 2018, months after the disqualification of his elder brother Nawaz Sharif by the Supreme Court. After the disqualification from holding any public office, Nawaz was also disqualified from holding any office in the political party.

In his letter of resignation, Shehbaz recalled the “tumultuous events” of 2017 when Nawaz was disqualified. He stressed that now he was quitting the party post at “a pivotal moment” in the party’s history to reaffirm his unwavering commitment to the party’s principles and values.

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“In the face of adversity, Quaid Mohammad Nawaz Sharif entrusted me with the responsibility of assuming the presidency of the party, a duty I have upheld with utmost dedication and sincerity.

However, I am cognizant that this role has always been viewed as a trust, or "amanaat," bestowed upon me by our revered leader,” he said.

“I am heartened by recent developments that have exonerated our leader with dignity, affirming his unblemished integrity and commitment to the service of our nation. “[Also after] the General Elections of 2024, the Quaid and the Party have entrusted me with the responsibility of the Prime Minister's Office,” he added.

“In light of these developments and the steadfast guidance of our beloved leader, I believe the time has come for Mohammad Nawaz Sharif to resume his rightful place as the President of Pakistan Muslim League (N) and provide his invaluable leadership and vision to steer the party forward.”

Therefore, he continued, “it is with a deep sense of duty and reverence for our party's principles that I tender my resignation as the President of Pakistan Muslim League (N). I remain steadfast in my commitment to serve the party diligently and with unwavering loyalty under the leadership of Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.”

Shehbaz thanked the party leadership for “understanding and support”. He also acknowledged that the party and the leadership faced the trials and tribulations with great bravery and steadfastness.