Ex-Prime Minister to Spend 2-3 Weeks in London
LAHORE:
Nawaz Sharif Set to Visit London for Medical Check-Up Following Wife’s Death Anniversary
PML-N President Nawaz Sharif is anticipated to travel to London following the anniversary of his wife Kulsoom Nawaz’s death on September 11, as per sources within his party. During his upcoming visit, which is projected to span around two to three weeks, Nawaz Sharif is expected to undergo a thorough medical check-up.
The former prime minister plans to stay at his sons’ residence in the UK capital. However, the timing of this trip remains contingent on the prevailing political climate in Pakistan, which could influence his travel plans.
Nawaz Sharif, who was embroiled in legal controversies over corruption allegations in 2017, had faced convictions in two separate cases. In July and December of that year, the judiciary had convicted him, leading to significant political and personal repercussions. The gravity of these charges led to a stringent legal battle and a period of heightened scrutiny for the former leader.
In October 2019, Nawaz Sharif was granted an exceptional permit to seek medical treatment in London due to his deteriorating health. This move was met with considerable public and political attention, given the severity of the charges against him and the implications for his political career.
After a four-year hiatus, Nawaz Sharif returned to Pakistan in October 2023 during the final months of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government. His return marked a significant political moment, as he was subsequently acquitted in both corruption cases, reflecting a notable shift in his legal standing.
Following his acquittal, Nawaz Sharif reclaimed the presidency of the PML-N, a position he had lost following the Supreme Court’s landmark verdict related to the Panama Papers scandal. This legal decision had previously stripped him of key political roles and had a profound impact on his political trajectory.
During his forthcoming stay in London, Nawaz Sharif is expected to focus on his health, with the medical check-up likely being a central aspect of his visit. The timing and length of his stay are subject to change based on both his health condition and the evolving political situation back home.
This visit is seen as a continuation of Nawaz Sharif’s efforts to manage his health while balancing his political responsibilities and ambitions. The former prime minister’s trip to London underscores the complex interplay between personal health, legal challenges, and political engagement.
In summary, Nawaz Sharif’s planned visit to London highlights his ongoing need for medical attention while also navigating the intricacies of Pakistani politics. His stay is expected to be a period of both personal reflection and strategic planning as he continues to influence the political landscape from abroad.