Former Prime Minister and President of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Nawaz Sharif, is expected to travel to London in the first week of October 2024. According to reliable sources, the three-time Prime Minister will likely depart for the UK between October 5 and 7. The primary purpose of the trip is a routine medical check-up.
This anticipated visit to London follows a statement by PML-N central leader Ahsan Iqbal, who mentioned that while Nawaz Sharif’s departure program for London was not yet finalized, the former Prime Minister had plans to go for medical reasons. Iqbal reassured the public that even if Nawaz travels, he will soon return to Pakistan.
Reasons for the Trip
Nawaz Sharif, who has been dealing with multiple health issues in recent years, frequently travels abroad for medical treatment. His health concerns were one of the key reasons he has been residing outside Pakistan since 2019. London, where Nawaz received treatment in the past, has become a familiar destination for his medical care. This trip, according to sources, will follow a similar pattern of undergoing regular health check-ups.
Additionally, after spending a few days in London, there are reports that Nawaz may travel onward to the United States. The exact reason for the potential US visit remains undisclosed, but sources speculate it could also be related to medical consultation or political discussions.
Political Context and Speculations
Nawaz Sharif’s political comeback has been a topic of intense speculation in Pakistan. His departure for medical treatment in 2019 was marred by controversy, with his opponents accusing him of evading the legal cases against him. During his stay in London, Nawaz Sharif maintained a strong influence over the PML-N leadership, guiding his party’s political strategy.
Despite ongoing health issues, Nawaz’s possible return to Pakistan has been a subject of debate. Some PML-N leaders have hinted at his potential return, with suggestions that he could play an active role in upcoming political campaigns or even the general elections. However, there has been no confirmation of a final return date as of now.
Ahsan Iqbal’s Comments on Nawaz’s Departure
Recently, PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal addressed speculations about Nawaz’s trip to London. He stated that Nawaz’s travel plans were not yet finalized and clarified that even if he departs for medical reasons, he will return to Pakistan shortly. Iqbal’s comments came at a time when opposition parties were raising concerns about Nawaz’s prolonged absence from the country.
There are growing expectations among PML-N supporters for Nawaz to return and re-engage with Pakistan’s political landscape, particularly as the party prepares for the next general elections. However, Nawaz’s health remains a critical factor in any political decisions.
Nawaz Sharif’s Political Influence
Despite being away from the country, Nawaz Sharif has continued to exert a strong influence over the PML-N’s policies and decision-making. His daughter, Maryam Nawaz, has played an active role in representing the party on the ground, frequently engaging in political rallies and public addresses. Still, Nawaz’s leadership remains central to the party’s identity and electoral strategy.
Nawaz’s absence from the country has been a focal point for opposition parties, particularly the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan. PTI members have often criticized Nawaz for not facing legal charges in Pakistan and have accused him of using his health as a pretext to avoid accountability. Nonetheless, the PML-N leadership continues to defend Nawaz’s need for medical treatment abroad, insisting that he will return when his health permits.
Nawaz Sharif’s upcoming trip to London in early October has garnered attention both for its medical and political implications. While it is primarily a health-related visit, it will undoubtedly spark further debate about his future political role in Pakistan. As the leader of one of Pakistan’s largest political parties, Nawaz’s return to active politics remains a critical point of interest for both his supporters and opponents.
While his travel plans for London and potentially the US remain speculative, Nawaz Sharif’s influence over Pakistani politics endures. His health and any future decisions regarding his return to the country will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the political landscape, especially as the next general elections approach.
