Another clear path: Ex-Pakistani PM Nawaz Sharif, acquitted of corruption charges, eyes parliamentary run
With former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif acquitted of the remaining corruption charges, as declared by his lawyer, the political landscape for the upcoming parliamentary elections seems to be shifting.
Sharif had already garnered an acquittal in another corruption case towards the end of last month. Reports indicate that a subsequent appeal trial also ended in his favor on Tuesday. Under the Pakistani law, convicted individuals cannot run for a parliamentary seat.
Sentenced to several years in prison for corruption in 2018, Sharif was granted medical treatment permit to leave the country. He returned to Pakistan from England in October, appealing against the sentences.
Aiming to secure a fourth term in the parliamentary elections taking place in February next year, Sharif was previously unable to complete his three terms in office due to allegations of corruption. Forced to resign in 2017, the anti-corruption movement played a significant role in his dismissal.
Further Insights
Sharif's recent acquittals have resurfaced his political relevance, but the legal restrictions on convicts running for political office pose challenges. According to the Representation of the People Act, 1951, individuals convicted of criminal offenses and sentenced to two years or more imprisonment are disqualified from contesting elections during the incarceration period and for six years following release. However, the Election Commission can alter the disqualification duration in exceptional cases.
Despite these legal limitations, Sharif managed to return to the National Assembly in 2024. Though the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) did not secure a majority of directly elected seats, they relied on support from other parties to establish a government, with Shehbaz Sharif becoming prime minister.
Controversy has persisted over the return of the Sharif family, with Imran Khan, Sharif's main rival, accusing the military of playing a role in manipulating the elections. Imran Khan, too, faces corruption charges and has been convicted.
Related Articles
Concluding his legal battles, ex-Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's political future appears to be looking bright. Promise of a fourth term in office next February after clearing the corruption charges, Sharif's impact on Pakistan politics continues to be significant. Despite his return and subsequent government formations with his brother Shehbaz Sharif, controversies and ongoing legal disputes surrounding him persist.
