The return of former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif from self-imposed exile has sparked both intrigue and speculation in the political landscape of Pakistan. Sharif, who once served time for corruption, was allowed to leave jail in 2019 on health grounds. Now, he is being welcomed back by the military, his long-time arch-rival, and there is even talk of him potentially becoming Prime Minister once again. This unexpected turn of events has raised numerous questions about the impact it will have on Pakistan’s political future and what precautions should be taken.
First and foremost, it is important to note that Nawaz Sharif’s return is a significant development that could potentially reshape the political landscape of Pakistan. As a three-time former Prime Minister, his influence and popularity cannot be underestimated. His party, the PML-N, has already declared him as their candidate for the upcoming elections. However, there are several obstacles that Sharif will need to navigate in order to secure victory.
One major challenge is the state of Pakistan’s economy, for which the PML-N has received significant blame. The country is facing a staggering economic crisis, with skyrocketing inflation and a high cost of living. This has led to widespread frustration among the Pakistani population, who are deeply dissatisfied with the current system of democracy. Sharif’s party claims that he has the experience and knowledge to fix the economy, but there are doubts about his ability to deliver on this promise.
Furthermore, the fairness of the elections is at stake. Sharif’s main opponent, Imran Khan, is currently in jail, and there are concerns that this could hinder a level playing field for the upcoming elections. The PTI, Khan’s party, had been ahead in the polls before his arrest. However, with Khan’s party weakened after the crackdown on protests following his arrest, there are doubts about the fairness of the electoral process. Observers argue that history may repeat itself, with the PML-N benefiting from these circumstances, just as the PTI did in the 2018 elections.
The military’s role in Pakistani politics cannot be ignored. Despite his past confrontations with the military, Sharif seems to have garnered their support for his return. There are speculations of a possible deal between Sharif and the establishment, despite his criticisms of the military from London. Analysts suggest that the military sees him as a better alternative to Khan, and thus, is willing to give him another chance. However, caution should be exercised in assuming that Sharif will be a puppet for the military. Sharif has a history of confrontation with the establishment, and it is likely that tensions will arise at some point during his tenure.
It is crucial to remember that Nawaz Sharif’s return does not guarantee his victory in the upcoming elections. There are court cases pending against him, and he is disqualified for life from politics according to court orders. His opponents argue that he may not be able to secure a win due to these legal obstacles. However, many political observers believe that the changing political dynamics and the military’s involvement will work in Sharif’s favor.
In conclusion, Nawaz Sharif’s unexpected return has brought about a seismic shift in Pakistan’s political landscape. The implications of his comeback are vast, ranging from the economy to the fairness of the electoral process. While Sharif’s popularity cannot be ignored, caution should be exercised in assuming his victory and his relationship with the military. The upcoming elections will undoubtedly be a crucial turning point for Pakistan, and the course it takes will depend on how these complex factors interact and unfold.
