LAHORE: In a significant development, President of the Punjab chapter of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Rana Sanaullah on Friday announced that Nawaz Sharif would resume his leadership role within the ruling party.

This announcement comes following the clearance of Nawaz Sharif from various legal cases by the courts and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

Speaking to reporters in Lahore after a party leadership meeting, the former security chief stated, “Nawaz Sharif will once again lead the party. The PML-N will progress under his guidance.” Sanaullah emphasized that Nawaz Sharif had received a “clean chit” from the courts.

Nawaz Sharif relinquished the position of prime minister in 2017 after being permanently disqualified by the Supreme Court for not disclosing a receivable salary. Furthermore, in February 2018, the Supreme Court barred Nawaz from holding the position of PML-N president, citing disqualification under Articles 62 and 63, which prevent individuals with certain disqualifications from leading political parties.

Despite these setbacks, Nawaz Sharif returned to Pakistan in October the previous year after four years of self-imposed exile in London.

The top court’s decision on January 8, 2024, to abolish lifetime election bans for individuals with criminal convictions opened the door for Nawaz to pursue political office once again.

Sanaullah expressed confidence that under Nawaz’s leadership, the PML-N would overcome its shortcomings and adhere to Nawaz’s narrative, whether it leans towards resistance or reconciliation.

Regarding the party’s internal structure, Sanaullah clarified that while the title of “Quaid” was created, the operational leadership role remained with the president. After Nawaz’s disqualification, PML-N leaders had designated him as the “Quaid” for life in 2018.

Detailing the discussions from the recent meeting, Sanaullah highlighted the effective proposals put forward by PML-N leaders concerning the country’s current political landscape.

He mentioned that Nawaz Sharif had been urged to resume leadership of the party, emphasizing Nawaz’s efforts to navigate the country through its economic challenges.

Sanaullah also praised the performance of the PML-N-led government in Punjab, noting Maryam Nawaz’s endeavors to alleviate the public’s concerns.

The party leadership expressed satisfaction with the performance of Prime Minister Shehbaz and Chief Minister Maryam in Punjab.