In a momentous turn of events, Mian Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan and leader of the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), has returned to his homeland after a four-year sojourn in the United Kingdom. Sharif’s departure to the UK was prompted by a conviction and subsequent prison sentence, driven by the pursuit of medical treatment for his cardiac condition. His triumphant return was marked by a private jet journey from Dubai Airport, culminating with a landing at Islamabad Airport, albeit with a brief delay.
A Hero’s Welcome
Before embarking on his journey back to Pakistan, Nawaz Sharif boarded a chartered flight at Dubai International Airport. Accompanying him on this monumental trip were several prominent PML-N leaders, as well as the well-known singer Waris Baig. In anticipation of his arrival, a legal and political team comprising PML-N leaders was assembled to hold a crucial meeting with their beloved leader at Islamabad Airport.
The seasoned politician’s stopover at the federal capital airport is expected to last an hour, during which he will engage in critical legal consultations. Following this, he is scheduled to depart for the provincial capital, Lahore, where an enthusiastic throng of party workers eagerly awaits his return.
A Beacon of Hope in Troubled Times
October 21 marks a historic day in Pakistani politics. This day witnesses the return of a leader touted as the upcoming prime minister of a nation of over 240 million people grappling with one of the worst economic crises in recent memory. Sharif is being hailed as a “Messiah” who will navigate Pakistan through these turbulent waters.
In his previous tenure as the Prime Minister, Sharif was serving time for corruption charges. However, he left the country on health grounds in November 2019. The political landscape in Pakistan has since undergone a sea change, with the current Prime Minister, Imran Khan, now behind bars.
For some time, Nawaz Sharif has been preparing for this moment, especially following Imran Khan’s ouster through a vote of no confidence. His party took charge of the crisis-ridden nation, with his younger brother, Shehbaz Sharif, assuming the role of the Prime Minister. However, the PDM government faced numerous challenges, and now it’s Nawaz Sharif’s turn to address the ongoing issues.
Despite being declared an absconder in court cases, he managed to secure protective bail until October 24. This is not the first instance of a top PML-N leader returning from exile. In 2007, Sharif, along with the late PPP leader Benazir Bhutto, struck a historic deal to return to their homeland.
A Voice from Across the Seas
During his stay in Britain, Nawaz Sharif remained vocal against former Army Chief Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa and ISI Chief Faiz Hameed, whom he accused of orchestrating his ouster. He even openly criticized the judges who convicted him in corruption cases.
A Mission, Not Revenge
As Nawaz Sharif steps back on the soil of his homeland, he is filled with gratitude for Pakistanis and his party workers, who have planned an extensive rally in Lahore to welcome him. Speaking with local media, the seasoned politician expressed his appreciation for all those who supported him during his time in the UK. He emphasized that his homecoming is a mission to guide Pakistan through its economic and political challenges. Highlighting the upcoming elections as crucial, he stated that they will ultimately shape the nation’s future.
Nawaz Sharif announced his plan to present a vision for Pakistan at Minar-e-Pakistan. Importantly, he has made it clear that he is not returning for revenge. Instead, his focus is on the greater good of the nation.
Conclusion
Mian Nawaz Sharif’s return to Pakistan is not just a homecoming but a significant turning point in the nation’s politics. As he embarks on this new chapter, his journey is poised to influence Pakistan’s political landscape in ways that only time will reveal. His message of unity, healing, and progress is one that resonates with many Pakistanis who eagerly await the impact of this veteran politician on the country’s future.
