Sharifs maintain political grip in spite of removal

Political observers said that Nawaz Sharif and the PML-N party could win more sympathy and votes in the coming elections in the wake of the disqualification.

Marvi Sarmad, a senior political and security analyst, said that although opposition leader Imran Khan is the main beneficiary of the court’s removal of the prime minister, he could not stop Sharif ’s party from maintaining a powerful role in politics.

“I do not think there will be any significant change in the political situation,” she said, pointing out that Shahbaz has extensive political experience and could overcome the current crisis.

PML-N and Nawaz Sharif himself showed political sagacity to implement the Supreme Court’s verdict despite expressing serious reservations.

There is no doubt that Nawaz Sharif ’s disqualification will have a negative impact on the internal and external policies he had been pursuing as the prime minister. But transferring the power to his brother will ensure continuation of policies, including fight against terrorism.

Cordial relations with India and Afghanistan will be a difficult task for the new leader but he will have to honor Nawaz Sharif ’s pledges for good neighborly relations.