Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan’s former three-time prime minister, is poised to make a triumphant comeback by winning the upcoming election on 8 February. Despite facing corruption charges and a previous ousting in a military coup, Sharif has managed to regain public support and position himself as the preferred candidate for the highest office. His ability to navigate the political landscape and maintain a strong relationship with the country’s powerful military has played a crucial role in his resurgence.
Sharif’s comeback is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it highlights the complex dynamics of Pakistani politics, where leaders can rise and fall multiple times. Sharif’s previous terms in office were marked by controversies, including court proceedings over corruption allegations and a six-month opposition blockade of the capital. However, he has managed to overcome these challenges and present himself as a stable and experienced leader.
Additionally, Sharif’s return to power signifies a potential shift in the balance of power between civilian governments and the military. Historically, the military has exerted significant influence over Pakistani politics, often ousting democratically-elected leaders. Sharif’s ability to garner support from the military indicates a possible realignment of power dynamics, where civilian leaders can maintain a cooperative relationship with the military while still asserting their authority.
However, there are concerns surrounding Sharif’s comeback. One major issue is the state of Pakistan’s economy, which has been marred by instability and underperformance. Sharif’s party, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), has been blamed for the economic challenges facing the country. This criticism may impact the party’s electoral prospects, as voters associate Sharif with the economic hardships they have experienced.
Another concern is the fairness of the election. Sharif’s main opponent, Imran Khan, is currently imprisoned, leading to claims that the vote will not be fair. The perception of a rigged election could undermine the legitimacy of Sharif’s victory and further polarize the political landscape in Pakistan.
Furthermore, Sharif’s return and potential victory raise questions about the role of the military in shaping the country’s political future. While the military claims to stay out of politics, Sharif’s ability to secure legal relief and garner military support suggests a level of cooperation between him and the armed forces. This close relationship raises concerns about the extent of military influence over Pakistan’s democratic institutions.
In conclusion, Nawaz Sharif’s comeback in Pakistani politics is poised to have a significant impact on the country’s political landscape. His ability to navigate challenges, maintain a cooperative relationship with the military, and present himself as an experienced leader has positioned him as the favored candidate for the upcoming election. However, concerns about the state of the economy, fairness of the election, and the role of the military linger, highlighting the complexities and uncertainties of Pakistani politics.
