In a highly anticipated political spectacle, Nawaz Sharif, the three-time former prime minister, is poised to make his long-awaited return to Pakistan today, ending his self-imposed exile of four years in London. The leader of the PML-N is returning to Pakistan to revitalize his political party, seeking to regain political influence and make a fourth attempt at attaining power. His homecoming coincides with the country’s approach to high-stakes general elections next year, setting the stage for an intense political showdown.
Facing the threat of arrest and burdened by high-profile corruption charges, Nawaz spent the last four years in London, initially leaving for medical reasons in 2019. Recently, a window for his return opened when he was granted pre-emptive bail. Notably, his return aligns with the imprisonment of his primary rival, former PM Imran Khan, and the internal turmoil within Imran’s political party following the May 9 incidents.
However, despite the preparations, it remains uncertain how much actual support Nawaz can garner. His success will depend on the voters’ verdict. According to Michael Kugelman, South Asia Institute Director at The Wilson Centre, “For Sharif, after the immediate euphoria of his return wears off, he will face an uphill battle. The honeymoon won’t last long.”
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In his bid for political resurgence, the party has organized an extravagant reception, making arrangements for Nawaz to address his supporters at Minar-e-Pakistan today. Nawaz’s return holds particular significance as he reenters the political arena four years after being ousted and disqualified in 2017 due to the infamous Panamagate scandal.
Nawaz’s departure from the prime minister’s office was marked by the rallying cry of “vote ko izzat do” (respect the vote). He accused top military officials and judges of orchestrating his government’s downfall, though he later adopted a more conciliatory tone regarding accountability for those behind his ouster.
Professor Tahir Naeem Malik from the National University of Modern Languages noted that prime ministers in Pakistan often lose their grip on relations with the establishment within a few years. However, Nawaz has made comebacks three times, particularly in the face of disputes with the military and efforts to normalize relations with India. The professor emphasized the importance of timing in politics, and Nawaz’s ability to navigate political narratives effectively.
Nawaz’s return coincides with the Pakistan People’s Party expressing reservations about the election process, suggesting a possible push for PML-N’s return to power by influential stakeholders, given the PTI’s difficulties following the events of May 9.
The political landscape is poised for an intriguing battle, with Nawaz Sharif’s return and the complex interplay of political forces promising an engaging lead-up to the January elections. Nawaz’s history of departures and returns dates back to 1999 when he was overthrown in a military coup led by General (retd) Pervez Musharraf. His political journey has been marked by exile, returns, and dramatic twists, making him a central figure in Pakistan’s political narrative, known for his resilience and ability to stage comebacks.
