Nawaz Sharif steps back, nominates Shehbaz for PM as Pakistan seeks economic revival

This move surprised many, as Nawaz himself was expected to seek the role after returning from exile and having past convictions overturned.

Author
Satyam Singh
Follow us:

X

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif nominated his younger brother, Shehbaz Sharif, for the Prime Minister's position during a parliamentary party meeting in Islamabad on Wednesday. This move surprised many, as Nawaz himself was expected to seek the role after returning from exile and having past convictions overturned.

Economy takes center stage

Nawaz, who led the party until August 2023, nominated his brother, stating that "in the current circumstances, Shehbaz Sharif is the best choice" for the post, according to Geo News. He emphasized that the new government's primary focus would be reviving the struggling economy, acknowledging the difficult task ahead but stressing the need for unity.

Nawaz wishes for stability

Expressing his desire for political stability, Nawaz said, "I wish every National Assembly, Senate, and Prime Minister to complete their constitutional term." He acknowledged his own experience, having been removed from office three times during his three previous terms as Prime Minister.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq nominated as speaker

Nawaz also nominated party loyalist Sardar Ayaz Sadiq to contest the National Assembly speaker position. Notably, his daughter, Maryam Nawaz, recently became the first woman Chief Minister of Punjab province.

Oath-taking ceremonies in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan

Newly elected members of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provincial assemblies were sworn in on the same day. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa ceremony reportedly faced protests from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers and party-backed lawmakers.

PTI announces protests

PTI, led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, plans to hold nationwide protests starting March 1. They allege electoral manipulation and urge other parties to join their cause in strengthening democracy. Despite winning 93 National Assembly seats, PTI is unlikely to form the government due to the formation of a six-party coalition.

Uncertainties remain

The nomination of Shehbaz Sharif and the upcoming protests highlight the ongoing political uncertainties in Pakistan. The new government faces the critical task of addressing the economic crisis while navigating the challenges posed by the opposition party.