PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif has asserted that his party will oppose any attempt to postpone the February 8 polls, emphasizing that a delay in the general elections would be detrimental to the country. With only 18 days remaining until the polls, Shehbaz Sharif expressed concern about the potential negative consequences of postponing the elections at the last minute. He claimed that the PML-N is poised to win a simple majority and stressed the challenges of governing without it. Shehbaz Sharif also stated that if voters choose PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari in the elections, the PML-N would accept the decision of the masses.

Addressing the possibility of resistance in case of election delay, Shehbaz Sharif indicated that such a move would be dangerous for the country, even amid tensions between Pakistan and Iran. Refuting the notion that the PML-N is facing campaign challenges due to the performance of the previous coalition PDM government, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the 13-party coalition’s role in saving the country from default.

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Regarding Iran’s recent actions, Shehbaz Sharif described it as unfortunate and suggested that diplomatic talks should have been pursued to resolve the matter. Responding to a question about unity, he acknowledged the need for national integrity but accused Imran Khan of committing “treason” by attacking state installations on May 9, 2023. Shehbaz Sharif referred to the May 9 incident as a conspiracy involving Imran Khan, individuals from the army, and the judiciary.

In response to Senate resolutions seeking a delay in the polls, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) recently stated that general elections scheduled for February 8 could not be postponed “at this stage.” The ECP highlighted that it had made all necessary arrangements and submitted a commitment to the Supreme Court in this regard.