Pakistan: After Four Years Of Self-Imposed Exile And Months Of Speculation, Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Returns

Nawaz Sharif, three-time Prime Minister of Pakistan, has returned to his homeland after four years of self-imposed exile, signaling a potential political resurgence in the run-up to the upcoming elections, reported NDTV.

The 73-year-old leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) arrived in Islamabad today on a chartered flight named 'Umeed-e-Pakistan' accompanied by family members, senior party figures, and friends.

Pakistan currently grapples with a convergence of security, economic, and political challenges, as the election date, initially postponed to January 2024, draws near.

Sharif's primary rival, the immensely popular Imran Khan, remains in detention.

Khawaja Muhammad Asif, a senior PML-N leader, expressed optimism about Sharif's return, describing it as a moment for hope and celebration.

To manage the expected crowds at Greater Iqbal Park, where a homecoming rally is scheduled, more than 7,000 police personnel have been mobilised.

Sharif's return has been long-anticipated by the PML-N, with party leaders banking on his enduring political influence and his deep connection with the people to rejuvenate the party's waning popularity.

Sharif's previous term, which began following a resounding victory in 2013, was marked by tumultuous events.

It commenced with an extended opposition-led blockade of Islamabad and culminated in his disqualification by the Supreme Court in 2017.

This judicial decision came after months of hearings stemming from the "Panama Papers" leaks, which raised allegations of corruption during his two previous terms in office.

Just this week, the Islamabad High Court granted Sharif protective bail until Tuesday, mitigating the immediate threat of his arrest upon his return to Pakistan.