Shehbaz Sharif, representing the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N), appears poised to rise to the role of Prime Minister of Pakistan, propped by his party's alliance with other political entities to secure the necessary support.
The decision to nominate Shehbaz as the face of the prime ministerial candidate comes as a surprise, considering the widespread anticipation for his older brother, Nawaz Sharif, to assume the top position. Shehbaz's elevation has stirred some unease within the PML-N, triggering speculation about Nawaz's political future, a notion swiftly dispelled by his daughter Maryam.
What has characterised Shehbaz's political trajectory thus far, and why has he been designated as the PM candidate over his more seasoned brother, Nawaz?
Let's delve into the details.
Shehbaz, aged 72, held the position of Prime Minister of Pakistan until August 2023, following the dissolution of the National Assembly for fresh elections. He assumed power just over a year earlier, in April 2022, following the removal of Imran Khan.
Before this, he served as Chief Minister of Punjab on three occasions: from 1997 to 1999, during which he and his family were exiled to Saudi Arabia by Parvez Musharraf; from 2008 to 2013; and from 2013 to 2018.
Shehbaz, the second son of industrialist Muhammad Sharif, is also involved in the family-owned Ittefaq Group of steel industries, with roots tracing back to Anantnag in Jammu and Kashmir.
As Chief Minister of Punjab, Shehbaz earned a reputation for his efficient work ethic and swift infrastructure development, exemplified by initiatives such as the Lahore Metrobus, which revolutionised mass transit in Lahore. He also spearheaded various social development projects.
However, Shehbaz's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by decreased popularity. Despite managing to maintain a diverse coalition, his administration was criticised for its handling of the economy amidst stringent IMF oversight and high inflation. Furthermore, his ascent to power, perceived as being backed by the military regime, and his displacement of the popular Imran Khan, tarnished his image.
Earlier in his career, Shehbaz confronted allegations of corruption and accusations of police brutality during his tenure as Chief Minister.
Maritally, Shehbaz has been married thrice: to Nusrat Shehbaz in 1973, to Aaliya Honey in 1993 (later separated), and to author Tehmina Durrani in 2003. Notably, a bridge constructed in Lahore during his tenure is colloquially referred to as the 'honey bridge', allegedly constructed to shorten his commute to Aaliya's residence.
Why Shehbaz and not Nawaz?
Maryam Nawaz, the daughter and political successor of Nawaz Sharif, clarified that her father opted against leading a coalition government, explaining Shehbaz's selection for the PM post. The recent Pakistani elections yielded an unexpected outcome, with independents backed by Imran Khan's PTI securing a considerable number of seats.
"Nawaz Sharif aspired to serve as PM for a fourth term, but in light of the fractured mandate, he declined the top position... Those familiar with Nawaz understand his reluctance to helm a coalition government," Maryam stated.
She further emphasised that Nawaz has not decided to withdraw from politics, asserting his intention to oversee the federal and Punjab governments, with Shehbaz and herself as his dedicated supporters.
Another factor contributing to Shehbaz's nomination is his reportedly more favourable rapport with the influential military compared to his elder brother. While Nawaz has frequently clashed with the military, which exerts considerable influence over Pakistan's civilian administration, Shehbaz is reputed for maintaining a smoother relationship with the generals.
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