PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui announced on Tuesday that former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is set to embark on a significant journey. Nawaz Sharif, who has been in self-imposed exile since 2019, will be flying to Saudi Arabia on October 11 to perform Umrah and spend time with his son, Hussain Sharif.
Nawaz Sharif’s departure to London in the middle of his seven-year jail term on medical grounds sparked controversy and legal proceedings. During his time abroad, he was declared a proclaimed offender in the Al Azizia and Avenfield graft cases due to his continuous absence from court proceedings.
The anticipation for Nawaz Sharif’s return to Pakistan has been building for some time. PML-N leader Shehbaz Sharif confirmed last month that his elder brother would be returning on October 21, and the party has declared that Nawaz is ready to face “all kinds of circumstances” upon his return.
In preparation for his return, Nawaz Sharif’s legal team recently submitted his medical reports to the Lahore High Court, stating that he had “some residual anginal symptoms.” Shehbaz Sharif expressed confidence that the party’s legal team had cleared the way for Nawaz’s arrival.
Before his return to Pakistan, Nawaz Sharif will spend time in Saudi Arabia, where he will perform Umrah and stay in Madina. Two days prior to his expected arrival on October 21, he will head to the United Arab Emirates, where he will rest and meet with some party leaders.
Responding to reports of Nawaz Sharif visiting China and Qatar, Senator Irfan Siddiqui clarified that no such trips were scheduled before October 21.
As Nawaz Sharif’s return draws near, questions arise about the PML-N’s political narrative. Senator Siddiqui emphasized that the party’s commitment to “vote ko izzat do” (honour the vote) remains unchanged. This narrative revolves around respecting the Parliament, upholding democratic values, and recognizing the public’s right to vote. Nawaz Sharif, a staunch advocate for democracy, will reveal his vision and narrative upon returning to Pakistan and addressing the public at the Minar-i-Pakistan rally.
Siddiqui hinted at the key points of Nawaz Sharif’s narrative, including a focus on reducing inflation and improving the well-being of the people. He emphasized that Nawaz’s speech would transcend traditional politics and provide a visionary path forward for the nation.
Separately, PML-N leader Rana Sanaullah called on the nation to leave their homes and give Nawaz Sharif a historic welcome on October 21. He asserted that supporting Nawaz Sharif signifies a prosperous and independent Pakistan and that Nawaz’s return would mark the beginning of a more hopeful era for the country.
In conclusion, Nawaz Sharif’s imminent journey from Umrah in Saudi Arabia to his long-anticipated return to Pakistan has generated significant anticipation and discussions about the political landscape. As he prepares to address the nation, his narrative and vision for Pakistan’s future will be eagerly awaited by supporters and observers alike