Pakistan News: Nawaz Sharif's Chairing Of Punjab Government Meetings Sparks Controversy

Following his relative absence from public view since the February 8 general elections, Nawaz Sharif, the supreme leader of the PML-N, made a significant appearance on Monday by presiding over three administrative meetings of the Punjab government.

This move has sparked scrutiny as Sharif lacks an official position in either the provincial or federal government, holding only the status of a National Assembly member, reported Dawn.

Nawaz Sharif Chairing Punjab Government

An official statement released after the meetings outlined directives issued by the PML-N leader concerning various infrastructure projects, such as the development of underground trains and metro buses, addressing the challenges faced by farmers, facilitating students with electric bikes, and implementing the Ramazan relief package.

Accompanying Sharif during the meetings at the Chief Minister's Office was Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Punjab chief minister, reported Dawn.

Sharif advocated for measures to support small-scale farmers and alleviate their burden of high electricity tariffs by proposing the provision of solar panels for tube wells. Notable attendees of the meetings included ministers responsible for planning and development, information, and food, along with the chief secretary and officials from the finance and agriculture departments.

In a separate meeting, Sharif commended the successful launch of the Ramazan relief program by his daughter's government and endorsed the establishment of civic administration centres in three cities, empowering them with police authority to regulate price fluctuations, reported Dawn.

Furthermore, Sharif called for an expansion of the electric bike program for students, suggesting reduced bus fares. Additionally, plans were set in motion to initiate metro bus projects in three cities and devise a strategy for implementing an underground train system in Lahore.

Nawaz Sharif's Influence: Questions and Politics

Questions have arisen regarding how Sharif, who holds only a position as a National Assembly member, could preside over meetings of the Punjab government and issue directives. There is a widespread belief that despite lacking an official role in the province, the PML-N leader is effectively making all major decisions.

This perception was reinforced by Sharif's daughter and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who, when asked why her father's image appears on bags distributing rations under the Ramazan relief package, responded, "Because it is Nawaz Sharif's government." Prior to Sharif's involvement, his close associate Pervaiz Rashid was a constant presence in provincial meetings, primarily guiding CM Maryam, reported Dawn.

Sharif had chaired provincial meetings previously when his younger brother, Shehbaz Sharif, was the chief minister. However, during that time, Nawaz Sharif held the prime minister's position, which he was poised to resume for the fourth time before the recent elections.

Leading up to the general election, Sharif was poised to become prime minister again if his party secured victory. However, the tide turned as his party failed to secure a simple majority in the National Assembly. Consequently, the elder Sharif stepped aside, allowing his younger brother, Shehbaz, to lead the coalition government at the center.