Observers doubt exit of prime minister will reduce family’s power
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — The Pakistan Muslim League party has named Shahbaz Sharif, younger brother of ousted Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, as his successor, which means the Sharifs will maintain their power in the country’s politics despite the disqualification of Nawaz Sharif by the country’s top court on Friday.
Nawaz Sharif stepped down as prime minister hours after the Supreme Court of Pakistan disqualified him from office over his alleged failure to disclose his income from a UAE-based company that is owned by one of his sons.
His removal had raised concerns in the country about a political crisis, however, PML-N senior leaders and lawmakers’ agreement on Shahbaz’s nomination will ensure continuation of Nawaz Sharif ’s policies.
Shahbaz Sharif, who is the incumbent chief minister in Pakistan’s most populous Punjab province, has vast experience in internal and external affairs because of his long involvement in government.
As PML-N enjoys majority support in the parliament, Shahbaz Sharif will not face any serious challenge from the opposition parties, which are involved in consultations to field a joint candidate to
Political issues should be resolved politically not through courts.” Afrasiab Khattak, former senator and political analyst
challenge him.
Although political watchers expect a crisis and tensions between the PML-N and the opposition parties, Nawaz Sharif adopted a soft and reconciliation tone when he spoke to reporters after he presided over a meeting to choose his successor.
Former senator and a political analyst Afrasiab Khattak described the court’s disqualification of an elected prime minister as unfortunate as the verdict has created disruption in the political system that could lead to instability.
“Political issues should be resolved politically not through courts. This is not a healthy practice,” Khattak said.
He said as PML-N party enjoys a clear majority in the National Assembly and a very strong support base in Punjab.