Shehbaz Sharif stressed that if these candidates fail to form a government, then other political parties have the right to form one, which he deemed the “legal and democratic approach.
Lahore: President of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said that his party is prepared to assume the role of opposition if independent candidates backed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) demonstrate a majority and establish a government at the national level.
Addressing a press conference in Lahore, the former prime minister emphasized, “If PTI-supported independent candidates can demonstrate a majority, then we will willingly take our place in the opposition benches and fulfill our constitutional responsibilities.”
However, Shehbaz Sharif stressed that if these candidates fail to form a government, then other political parties have the right to form one, which he deemed the “legal and democratic approach.”
Highlighting PML-N’s status as the “largest political party” following the February 8 general elections, he acknowledged the significant vote count achieved by independent candidates. He stated, “You cannot dispute the facts. But within the realm of political parties, PML-N holds the top position.”
Shehbaz Sharif urged political entities to unite despite differences to address the challenges facing Pakistan, now that the election results have been announced.
Despite PML-N’s inability to secure a majority, he reaffirmed Nawaz Sharif as the party’s nominee for the prime ministerial position, asserting, “I stand by my statement that Nawaz Sharif will become prime minister for the fourth time.”
Furthermore, the former premier dismissed allegations of rigging during the February 8 polls, highlighting instances of intimidation and false cases against his party members during the tenure of the Imran Khan-led government.
He criticized the premature declaration of independent candidates as winners based on a small percentage of results on election night, deeming it inappropriate and contradictory amid allegations of rigging.
Responding to inquiries about a potential new deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the necessity for Pakistan to pursue another IMF package promptly, regardless of whether through a coalition or alternative arrangement.
The general elections witnessed PTI-backed independent candidates consolidating their lead, particularly in the National and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assemblies.
Out of the 101 independent candidates who emerged victorious, 92 are supported by PTI, while nine are general independents. PML-N secured the second position with 75 seats, followed by PPP with 54 seats. Other parties also secured notable victories in various constituencies.
