Nawaz Sharif concludes UK matters as Shehbaz affirms Homecoming

LAHORE: Nawaz Sharif’s legal team presented his medical reports to the Lahore High Court on Friday, affirming the former Prime Minister’s intention to return to Pakistan as scheduled on October 21.

According to Dawn.com, Nawaz Sharif’s younger brother, Shehbaz Sharif, confirmed the decision, citing approval from both doctors and legal advisors.

In parallel developments, Nawaz Sharif concluded his tenure at Stanhope House, the de facto London headquarters of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, Shehbaz Sharif clarified the uncertainty surrounding his brother’s return and announced Nawaz Sharif’s plans to address a rally at Minar-i-Pakistan, outlining an economic roadmap for the country to navigate through crises.

Addressing questions on the party’s stance regarding former army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa and ex-ISI chief Gen Faiz Hamid, Shehbaz Sharif deferred providing specific details.

Read More: ‘Missing’ PTI leader Sadaqat Ali Abbasi returns home

Meanwhile, regarding the popularity of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf (PTI) Chief, he referenced a recent survey but refrained from confirming or denying its results, emphasising the importance of upcoming elections.

Shehbaz Sharif also drew a comparison between the PML-N and PTI, noting discrepancies in the 2018 surveys, alleging massive rigging that brought PTI to power. Asked about TV anchor Imran Riaz Khan, who went ‘missing’ during his time in power, Shehbaz Sharif claimed ignorance.

Concerning the party’s accountability narrative for figures like Bajwa and Hamid, he reiterated a call for across-the-board accountability, though he did not deny his return to London to dissuade his brother’s demands.

Rebranding the party’s slogan, Shehbaz Sharif clarified that ‘vote ko izzat do’ (respect the vote) does not imply an anti-establishment stance but rather emphasises serving voters.

Shehbaz told the media that the medical report submitted to the court revealed that Nawaz Sharif, while experiencing residual anginal symptoms, has not been advised against air travel. The report sought relief in the form of protective or transit bail upon his arrival in Lahore.

Furthermore, in London, Nawaz Sharif expressed gratitude to journalists on his final day at Stanhope House, refuting rumors of a multi-country tour before his return to Pakistan. He is scheduled to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia before returning to Pakistan.