Nawaz Sharif, a central figure in Pakistan’s political landscape, has experienced a tumultuous journey marked by periods of exile and dramatic returns. His political career, characterized by significant highs and lows, reflects the complexities of Pakistan’s political environment. This article delves into Nawaz Sharif’s exile and return, exploring the events leading to his departure, the impact of his absence, and the implications of his return on Pakistan’s politics.
The Road to Exile
Political Turmoil and Dismissal
Nawaz Sharif’s first term as Prime Minister, which began in 1990, was fraught with political challenges. His administration faced allegations of corruption and mismanagement. The power struggle between the executive and the judiciary, along with mounting opposition from rival political parties, culminated in his dismissal by President Ghulam Ishaq Khan in 1993. Although Sharif was briefly reinstated, the political climate remained unstable.
The 1999 Coup and Exile
The pivotal moment in Sharif’s political journey came in 1999. Amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions with the military, Nawaz Sharif attempted to assert civilian control over military operations. This led to a confrontation with the military leadership, which resulted in a coup d’état led by General Pervez Musharraf. Sharif was ousted from power and subsequently arrested.
Following the coup, Nawaz Sharif was convicted on charges of corruption and faced imprisonment. Under intense international pressure and political negotiations, he was eventually sent into exile. In 2000, Sharif agreed to a deal with the military government, which allowed him and his family to leave Pakistan and live in exile in Saudi Arabia.
Life in Exile
Political and Personal Impact
During his exile, Nawaz Sharif’s political activities were largely curtailed. Although he remained a vocal critic of the Pakistani government from abroad, his influence was diminished compared to his time in office. The exile period allowed him to reflect on his political career and strategize for a potential return.
Efforts to Rebuild Political Capital
While in exile, Sharif worked on rebuilding his political capital. He maintained communication with his party, the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N), and continued to engage with his supporters. His exile also involved efforts to position himself as a champion of democratic values and a critic of military intervention in politics.
The Return to Pakistan
The 2007 Return and Political Revival
Nawaz Sharif’s return to Pakistan in 2007 marked a significant turning point in his political career. After spending several years in exile, Sharif was allowed to return following a series of political and legal changes in Pakistan. His return was met with enthusiastic support from his party and a large segment of the Pakistani public.
Sharif’s re-entry into Pakistani politics was accompanied by a renewed focus on democratic governance and economic development. His return energized the PML-N and positioned him as a leading opposition figure against the then-government led by General Pervez Musharraf.
Rebuilding and Electoral Success
Following his return, Nawaz Sharif worked to re-establish his political influence. His party, the PML-N, gained traction and eventually won the 2013 general elections, making him Prime Minister for a third term. Sharif’s tenure focused on economic reforms, infrastructure development, and efforts to strengthen democratic institutions.
Challenges and Controversies Post-Return
Corruption Allegations and Legal Battles
Despite his electoral success, Nawaz Sharif’s post-return political career was marred by corruption allegations. The Panama Papers leak in 2016 revealed details about offshore accounts and luxury properties owned by Sharif’s family. This led to a series of legal battles and investigations.
In 2017, Nawaz Sharif was disqualified from holding public office by the Supreme Court of Pakistan due to his involvement in corruption. This disqualification led to further political turmoil and a series of legal and political challenges for Sharif and his party.
Political Impact and Legacy
Nawaz Sharif’s return to politics had a profound impact on Pakistan’s political landscape. His tenure was marked by efforts to address economic challenges and political instability. However, his legacy is also intertwined with legal controversies and challenges to his political authority.