Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif initially returned to Pakistan via Islamabad, deviating from the anticipated direct arrival in Lahore. The unexpected change in his itinerary spurred widespread speculation, with many wondering why this unorthodox route occurred.
Sharif’s detour to the federal capital wasn’t without reason. Sources close to the matter revealed that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader was compelled to first touch down in Islamabad to satisfy certain legal obligations. This procedural stopover directly resulted from the Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) decision to grant Sharif protective bail in two graft cases, effective until October 24.
Legal Wrangles: A Tactical Halt in Islamabad
Upon his arrival, Sharif wasn’t simply passing through. He engaged in critical consultations with his legal advisors, including former law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar and advocate Amjad Parvez. Barrister Zafarullah Khan, another staunch Sharif confidant, was also spotted at the airport, hinting at the gravity of the discussions.
The legal proceedings in Islamabad were meticulous. As insiders revealed, an oath commissioner was required for biometric verification — a clear indication of the stringent legal formalities awaiting Sharif. These measures underscored his precarious legal tightrope, considering the impending court appearances and ongoing graft references.
Once the legalities are settled in Islamabad, Sharif’s journey will continue to its original destination, Lahore. A significant political rally at Minar-e-Pakistan is scheduled, where the seasoned 73-year-old politician will take centre stage. Following his arrival on a chartered flight accompanied by over 160 party affiliates and media personnel, this major event marks a crucial moment in his political resurgence.
Sharif’s return to Pakistani soil, the first instance since his 2019 departure for medical treatment in London, comes under the shadow of a seven-year corruption-related prison sentence. Although the IHC has temporarily stalled his arrest, his legal battles are far from over. Despite constraints barring him from electoral participation or public office holding, Sharif’s camp remains optimistic. With appeals in the pipeline, there’s a clear intention for him to reclaim his prime ministerial berth, aspiring for an unprecedented fourth term.
