Senior leaders of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), including Rana Sanaullah and Maryam Aurangzeb, have strongly criticized Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed’s recent statement regarding former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s travel plans. They accuse him of overstepping his authority and claim that the decision of where Nawaz Sharif intends to go from the airport is not the Interior Minister’s prerogative but rather a matter for the public to decide.
In response to Sheikh Rasheed’s remarks, Rana Sanaullah, President of PML-N Punjab, advised him to review the outcome of former Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid’s tenure before issuing statements. He further urged Sheikh Rasheed to refrain from misinterpreting Nawaz Sharif’s intentions. Sanaullah asserted that Nawaz Sharif has already faced imprisonment and confrontations with the authorities, and it is essential for the Interior Minister to focus on his responsibilities rather than making speculative comments.
Maryam Aurangzeb, the spokesperson for PML-N, also reacted strongly to Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed’s statement. She emphasized that Nawaz Sharif’s travel plans are not within the purview of Sheikh Rasheed or the government. Instead, it is a matter that concerns Nawaz Sharif and the public. Aurangzeb urged the Interior Minister to avoid unnecessary involvement in personal matters and focus on his official duties.
The exchange of words between the opposition leaders and the Interior Minister highlights the ongoing political tensions and divisions in Pakistan. The issue of Nawaz Sharif’s travel plans has been a subject of debate and controversy for some time, with various stakeholders expressing differing opinions on the matter.
Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan and leader of the PML-N, has been living in the United Kingdom for medical treatment since November 2019. His departure from Pakistan was based on medical grounds and court orders. However, there has been speculation and debate about his return and the conditions under which it might occur.
The role of the Interior Minister is primarily concerned with matters related to internal security, law enforcement, and public safety. While it is not unusual for politicians to comment on various issues, the criticism from the PML-N leaders underscores the sensitivity and political significance of Nawaz Sharif’s return to Pakistan. It also reflects the deep political divisions and rivalries that continue to shape the country’s political landscape.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government, opposition, and other stakeholders will navigate the complex and contentious issue of Nawaz Sharif’s return and its implications for Pakistani politics.
