Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif has made a dramatic return to his homeland after spending four years in exile. Sharif, who is seeking a record fourth term in the upcoming general elections, addressed a massive rally in Lahore, where he highlighted his achievements during his previous tenure and recalled the historic moment when Pakistan conducted nuclear tests in response to India’s atomic explosion in 1998.
Speaking to a crowd of thousands of supporters, Sharif expressed his love and gratitude for the overwhelming support he received upon his return. He revealed that during his time as prime minister, he was offered a staggering $5 billion by then US President Bill Clinton to refrain from conducting the nuclear tests. However, Sharif firmly refused the offer, citing that it was a matter of national pride and the protection of Pakistan.
Questioning whether anyone else would have stood up to the American president in the same way, Sharif suggested that his government’s decision to conduct the atomic tests and respond to India’s aggression was punished unjustly. He argued that Pakistan should not have been subjected to international sanctions, claiming that it was a matter of self-defense.
In his address, Sharif also shed light on the numerous fake cases filed against him, his daughter, and members of his political party, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). Emphasizing that no one had abandoned the PML-N flag despite the challenges faced, he criticized the authorities for their alleged manipulation of the judiciary and the legal system.
Sharif went on to highlight the rising cost of food and questioned whether he was ousted from power due to this reason. He pledged to redirect the country towards growth and development, lamenting the current state of Pakistan under the current government’s rule.
As Sharif strives to secure a fourth term in office, his return to Pakistan has energized his supporters and given them hope for a better future. With his strong stance on national security and promise to tackle economic challenges, he aims to rally the nation behind him once again. As election day approaches, the political landscape in Pakistan is set to witness further excitement and anticipation.