In a significant political development, Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan’s thrice-elected former prime minister, has made a triumphant return to his homeland after four years of self-exile in the United Kingdom. His return is strategically timed as he seeks to compete in the forthcoming elections against his main rival, former premier Imran Khan.
The 73-year-old seasoned politician arrived in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, via a chartered flight, marking a pivotal moment in his political career. Following his arrival, a grand rally is expected to take place in his hometown of Lahore, where ardent supporters have adorned the city with green and yellow party banners, posters, and flags in a show of support.
Sharif expressed his determination and readiness for the upcoming elections, stating, “We are completely ready for elections.” He went on to emphasize the challenging situation facing the country, saying, “Our country, which should have been at the heights of prosperity, has really gone backward. How did we get here? Why did it come to this?”
Pakistan currently finds itself grappling with multiple crises, including security, economic, and political challenges. The elections have already been postponed to January 2024, with Imran Khan incarcerated on corruption charges, which he vehemently denies, following his removal via a no-confidence vote in April 2022.
Nawaz Sharif had not set foot in Pakistan since his departure for London in 2019, where he sought medical treatment while serving a 14-year prison sentence for corruption. Although his convictions remain in effect, a recent court ruling barred authorities from arresting him until Tuesday when he is scheduled to appear in court.
Despite his legal restrictions that prevent him from running for or holding public office, Sharif’s legal team has indicated plans to appeal, and his party envisions his return to the position of prime minister for a fourth term.
Sharif’s primary challenge lies in regaining his political support base, particularly from Imran Khan, who, despite his imprisonment, retains significant popularity following his ousting. It’s worth noting that Khan is also disqualified from the election due to a corruption conviction in August, which he is appealing.
Political analyst Ayesha Siddiqa emphasized the hurdles Sharif faces, stating, “Sharif’s key challenge is first to establish himself and his party as viable options to replace Imran Khan, who is already popular, and secondly to turn around the economy.”
Sharif’s return to the political scene has been marked by his allegations that he was ousted from the government at the behest of the powerful military after falling out with senior generals, who hold considerable influence in Pakistani politics. He contends that the military supported Imran Khan in the 2018 general election, a claim denied by Khan and the military.
The relationship between Khan and the military deteriorated in 2022, providing Sharif with a favorable political environment. The military has consistently denied interfering in political matters.
Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center, explained the dynamics, saying, “An evergreen rule about Pakistani politics is that your chances of taking power are always greater when you’re in the good books of the army.” He highlighted Sharif’s oscillating relationship with the military and the current cordial phase, which could politically benefit him.
As Pakistan approaches its forthcoming elections, a caretaker government is currently in charge, overseeing the preparations for the crucial political event in January.
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