PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif has been elected as the 24th Prime Minister of Pakistan, securing a commanding 201 votes. This announcement was made by National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, marking a notable victory over PTI’s candidate, Omer Ayub Khan, who garnered 92 votes. The election process, which concluded with Sadiq inviting Shehbaz to the Leader of the House’s seat, was a momentous occasion, further highlighted by Shehbaz’s heartfelt embrace with his elder brother, Nawaz Sharif, following the announcement.
In a compelling address to the National Assembly after his election as Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, with a tone of solemnity, distinguished his party’s approach from that of his rivals. Emphasizing the ethos of his party, the PML-N, he stated firmly that neither he nor his brother, Nawaz Sharif, have ever harbored intentions to harm Pakistan—a stark contrast to the actions of their opponents, according to his statement.
Shehbaz Sharif recounted the adversities faced by the opposition, highlighting the indiscriminate jailing and the use of language he deemed inappropriate for public discourse. His speech painted a picture of his party as one that has abstained from the politics of vengeance, an ethos that he believes separates them from other leadership.
The newly elected Prime Minister spoke passionately about the integrity of his leadership, pointing out that under their guidance, no public property was ever damaged. However, he recalled with disapproval the unfortunate events of May 9, when significant military establishments were targeted, describing those events as shameful and indelible blots on the nation’s history.
A FAMILY REUNION AND A PLEDGE FOR PROGRESS
Following the announcement, a poignant moment unfolded as Shehbaz Sharif shared a heartfelt embrace with his elder brother, Nawaz Sharif, signaling a reunion of political power and familial bonds. In his victory speech, Shehbaz did not just celebrate his win but extended his appreciation to Nawaz for his mentorship and to the allies whose support was crucial for his ascendancy. Despite disruptions from PTI’s lawmakers, Shehbaz lauded the developmental milestones achieved during Nawaz’s tenures and paid tribute to the enduring legacy of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto in shaping the nation’s trajectory.
PAKISTAN SENATE DEBATES MAJOR SOCIAL MEDIA BAN
POLITICAL TURMOIL AND ELECTION BOYCOTTS
The election was marked by notable absences, including a boycott from Akhtar Mengal of the Balochistan National Party-Mengal, underscoring the lingering discontent and allegations of electoral misconduct that have marred the political process. Despite efforts from leaders across the political spectrum, Mengal’s abstention, alongside the JUI-F’s boycott, reflected the undercurrents of skepticism and demands for transparency within Pakistan’s electoral system.
PTI’S PARTY DYNAMICS
In related news, Barrister Gohar Khan was elected as the PTI chairman “unopposed,” following the withdrawal of other candidates in favor of party harmony and unity, as announced by PTI spokesperson Raoof Hasan.
Omer Ayub Khan was similarly declared the uncontested winner for the position of PTI general secretary, highlighting a day of significant political shifts and consolidations in Pakistan’s political landscape.
