This decision, made during the PML-N general council meeting, signifies the influential role of the Sharif family in shaping the party's leadership and direction, with every decision taken in consultation with the self-exiled former premier, Nawaz Sharif.
In a significant development, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has announced Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as the party's new president, while Maryam Nawaz, daughter of party supremo Nawaz Sharif, has been appointed as the senior vice president. The decision was made during a meeting of the PML-N general council held on Friday. Shehbaz Sharif expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the party members and leaders for their trust and support.
The uncontested elections suggest a display of unity within the PML-N. However, insiders reveal that this is indicative of the Sharif family's stronghold over the party, as they had a hand in hand-picking each office holder. It is widely believed that Nawaz Sharif, who has been residing in London since 2019 for medical treatment, continues to exert considerable influence within the PML-N, making key decisions behind the scenes.
Prominent party leaders were also selected for key positions, including Ahsan Iqbal as secretary general, Marriyum Aurangzeb as secretary of information, Ataullah Tarar as deputy secretary, and Ishaq Dar as secretary of finance and overseas affairs. This selection highlights the careful deliberation and strategic planning by the PML-N in shaping its leadership.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his post-election speech, expressed his commitment to serve as a loyal "soldier" to his elder brother, Nawaz Sharif, who he believes will return to Pakistan before the upcoming elections to lead the party once again. Shehbaz emphasized that his brother's return would bring about a significant transformation in the political and economic landscape of the country.
Addressing the challenges faced by Pakistan's economy, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke about the ongoing efforts to meet the International Monetary Fund's conditions for a stalled loan. He mentioned the aim to reach a "short-term agreement" with the IMF, indicating a focused approach to address the country's economic hardships. Furthermore, he commended Ishaq Dar for his contributions in improving the nation's financial conditions.
Maryam Nawaz, often considered the rightful successor to her father Nawaz Sharif, delivered a speech highlighting the close partnership between Shehbaz and Nawaz Sharif. She emphasized that every decision made by Shehbaz was done in consultation with his elder brother, underscoring Nawaz Sharif's overarching role in party affairs. Maryam also expressed strong condemnation for the violence that took place on May 9, vowing that those responsible would face consequences.