Nawaz Sharif expressed his lingering disappointment over the 2017 ousting of his government, hinting at potential manipulation in the subsequent 2018 elections that brought the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to power. Sharif, addressing the parliamentary board panel in Lahore, emphasized the need to rectify past “mistakes” for the benefit of the nation. He urged the nation to scrutinize the events of the 2018 elections, asserting that the citizens deserve transparency regarding what transpired during that critical period.
The former prime minister underscored the importance of ethical conduct in politics, asserting that true honor lies in serving the people and prioritizing the nation’s welfare over personal interests. Sharif claimed that in 2017 the country was on a positive trajectory, with high expectations of the PML-N’s success in the subsequent elections. He suggested that the party’s robust performance threatened other political contenders.
Expressing deep concern about the current state of the nation, Sharif lamented its diminished global standing, stating, “We should regret that we are one of the worst-performing countries in the world at the moment.” He pointed out the country’s heavy reliance on imports and highlighted the economic challenges it faces, contrasting with the initial promise it held.
Nawaz Sharif stressed the urgency of addressing these issues, particularly the impact of inflation on people’s livelihoods, as many struggle to meet basic needs such as paying electricity bills. During a recent session, he also focused on diplomatic relations, advocating for improved ties with neighboring countries like India, Afghanistan, and Iran. Sharif emphasized that Pakistan’s global credibility hinges on maintaining amicable relations with its bordering nations.
Reflecting on historical events, Sharif recalled the Kargil war in 1999, emphasizing that his government opposed it. He argued that subsequent reflection validated the correctness of their stance, asserting that opposing Kargil wasn’t a sign of weakness but a demonstration of commitment to tough decisions in the interest of national security. He cited the example of conducting atomic tests, despite opposition from world powers, as a testament to Pakistan’s resilience and determination to safeguard its sovereignty.
ملک بہت پیچھے چلا گیا ہے اللہ تعالیٰ اس ملک کی حفاظت فرمائے اور پاکستان اور اسکے لوگ خوشحال ہوں۔دنیا بہت آگے چلی گئی ہے۔ہمیں اس بات کا افسوس کرنا چاہیے کہ ہم کیوں دنیا کے پست ترین ممالک میں شامل ہیں۔ قائد مسلم لیگ (ن) محمد نواز شریف pic.twitter.com/x86Etn6xWq
— PMLN (@pmln_org) December 11, 2023
In light of the current challenges faced by the nation, Nawaz Sharif called for unity and concerted efforts to steer Pakistan back on a positive trajectory. He urged political leaders and citizens alike to prioritize the country’s interests over personal or partisan gains, fostering a spirit of cooperation and collective responsibility.
As the political landscape in Pakistan continues to evolve, Nawaz Sharif’s impassioned plea for transparency, ethical conduct, and national unity resonates strongly. The citizens, now more than ever, are seeking answers to the questions surrounding the 2018 elections and yearning for a path that leads the nation toward prosperity and global recognition.
