- Terms May 9 events ‘betrayal’ and ‘conspiracy’ hatched by PTI founder against institutions
LAHORE: Former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has made it clear that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) will vehemently oppose any attempts to postpone the February 8 general elections.
In an interview with a private news channel, Shehbaz emphasized the critical need for proceeding with the electoral process without delay, stating that any postponement would be detrimental to Pakistan’s democracy.
Shehbaz Sharif, who serves as the president of PML-N, highlighted the ongoing election campaigns by various parties across the country, underscoring the urgency of conducting the nationwide polls as scheduled. He also credited the previous governments led by his elder brother, Nawaz Sharif, for significant achievements, including Pakistan’s nuclear power status.
Highlighting the party’s election strategy, Shehbaz Sharif mentioned that Nawaz Sharif personally interviewed candidates and would be the party’s candidate for the premiership. However, he refrained from confirming the restoration of his previous position as the Chief Minister of Punjab, stating that the decision would be made after consultation with Nawaz Sharif following the election victory.
Moreover, Shehbaz Sharif commented on the PML-N’s narrative “Vote Ko Izzat Do” (Respect the Vote), attributing it to the party’s commitment to ending load shedding within five years. Additionally, he addressed legal cases against the PML-N and its leadership, as well as the need for unity among stakeholders for the country’s better interests.
Commenting on a large number of cases against the former ruling party, PTI, and its leadership, Shehbaz said Imran would never be in jail if the May 9 riots had not happened.
He termed May 9 events ‘betrayal’ and a “conspiracy’ hatched by the PTI founder against the armed forces.
He urged all stakeholders to maintain unity in the better interests of the country.
A few days ago, Shehbaz claimed that it would “surprise” everyone in the February 8 election, as the date for the much-awaited contest nears and electioneering intensifies almost across the country.
In the interaction with journalists, the former ruling party’s president said he was confident of his party securing sufficient seats to form government in the centre as his elder brother Nawaz eyes becoming the prime minister for a record fourth time.
With the PML-N fielding 208 candidates for the 266 National Assembly general seats and a total of 671 tickets issued for the 859 seats across the five legislatures, the party appears to be actively preparing for a significant presence in the upcoming elections. Shehbaz Sharif’s return to Pakistan after a period of exile is seen as a boost for the party, as they aim to secure sufficient seats to form a government, with Nawaz Sharif eyeing a potential fourth term as Prime Minister.
