Wherever I go, I am asked one thing: what is the agenda of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Mian Nawaz Sharif?
My answer to them is: have you not listened to his address to a huge rally in Lahore on October 21?
At Minar-e-Pakistan ground in Lahore, a massive crowd gathered on October 21 to hear the words of Mian Nawaz Sharif, the leader of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz.
It seems, even after listening to his speech, many are still unsure about the PML-N leader’s plans when it comes to governing the nation. What’s his strategy to revive the economy? How will he navigate Pakistan’s complex relationship with India? How does he intend to handle his political opponents?
Mian Nawaz Sharif, a seasoned leader who has held the reins of the country three times and was ousted each time before completing his constitutional term, has faced numerous challenges, including imprisonment and forced exile. Yet, he remains a formidable force in Pakistan’s politics. His speech, shortly before the upcoming general elections, generated interest and enthusiasm among the entire nation, as well as the political, journalistic, and public circles. It was not just a local event; it reached audiences worldwide through television broadcasts and YouTube channels.
In this critical address, Mian Nawaz Sharif conveyed a clear message to the nation, political forces, and state institutions. His every single word was important when he emphasized the need for unity and a collective effort to extricate the country from its current crises, all while upholding the constitution and the rule of law. Despite discussing injustices and hardships faced by his family and colleagues, he made it clear that there was no room for vengeance in his heart. His mission is to serve the nation and steer the country through challenging times.
Furthermore, Nawaz Sharif’s speech focused the need for political parties and state institutions to work together for the country’s betterment. He questioned who, repeatedly, separates him from his loved ones and the nation every few years, referring to the recurring interruptions in his government. By addressing these concerns, he issued a warning – Pakistan cannot afford to be toyed with in the future. The underlying issues causing these recurring crises must be addressed.
Nawaz Sharif drew a stark contrast between the developments during his tenure and the changes that followed. He proudly highlighted the achievements of his government, including making Pakistan a nuclear power, tackling load shedding, expanding the motorway network, and keeping consumer goods affordable. He invited the audience to reflect on these accomplishments and to compare them with subsequent governments’ narratives.
In a commendable move to combat the bitterness and hatred that has crept into Pakistan’s political culture in recent years, Nawaz Sharif urged his supporters not to respond to insults with insults. He stressed the importance of resolving differences, including the long-standing issue of Kashmir, through peaceful and dignified means rather than resorting to war with neighboring countries.
The leader also denounced the ongoing Israeli atrocities in Gaza and fervently called for justice for the people of Palestine. Additionally, Mian Nawaz Sharif presented an innovative agenda for the country’s revival. This agenda includes reducing government and administrative expenses, reforming the tax system, boosting exports, revolutionizing information technology, and addressing issues related to electricity and gas. Furthermore, he emphasized the need to manage loss-making government enterprises effectively.
Though Mian Nawaz Sharif’s address was comprehensive, there were bad points too. The initial part of the rally when Nawaz Sharif hit the stage, his hugs with Maryam and Shehbaz Sharif did not go well with the public. As we approach the upcoming general elections, the nation will be watching closely to see how these plans translate into action, and whether the promise of unity and progress becomes a reality for Pakistan.
