Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) President and former prime minister Shahbaz Sharif has clarified that PMLN will sit on the Opposition benches if independents form a government at the Centre.

He was addressing a news conference in Lahore on Tuesday.

“Independent winners in general elections are welcome to show a majority in the National Assembly and the PML-N will accept it,” Shehbaz Sharif added.

He clarified, “PML-N is in contact with PPP, MQM-P, and JUI while consultations are going on and we will make an alliance under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif.”

The former premier reiteration that Nawaz Sharif will become a prime minister for the fourth time.

Shehbaz Sharif expressed concerns about alleged restrictions on voter participation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), suggesting potential disenfranchisement.

He raised questions about the origins of terrorism in Swat, implicating unspecified individuals in its proliferation.

Sharif also highlighted efforts towards political cohesion, noting the involvement of Mian Nawaz Sharif in consultations with political parties. He emphasized the need to transform sorrow into happiness, underscoring a positive outlook amidst challenges.

Asserting political strength, Sharif claimed majority representation in Punjab and significance as a major party at the national level. He cited an increase in party representation to 80 seats in the central government, positioning his party as influential in governance.

Sharif acknowledged historical reservations about electoral integrity, particularly referencing alleged rigging in Lahore during the 2018 elections.

Regarding policy and governance, Sharif reiterated a commitment to national prosperity, emphasizing a focus beyond personal terms or titles. He recalled promises made by Nawaz Sharif in 2013, particularly relating to addressing the energy crisis, and claimed success in reducing corruption levels during their tenure as evidenced by Transparency International rankings.

Sharif pledged to address the prevailing economic crisis. He also affirmed acceptance of election results, urging collective action for the broader national interest.

Must Read: Not Nawaz Sharif, but Shehbaz to be PML-N's prime minister candidate: Asif

Signs of the formation of a coalition government at the federal level have emerged, as indicated by senior PML-N leader Khawaja Asif. In an exclusive interview with Samaa TV, Khawaja Asif also disclosed that Nawaz Sharif, the leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), will not be the party's prime ministerial candidate. Instead, Shahbaz Sharif, Nawaz Sharif's brother, is set to be the PML-N's candidate for the prime ministership.

Furthermore, Asif revealed that the coalition government will collectively decide on the name of the prime minister. This implies that various political parties involved in the coalition will have a say in determining the country's leadership. Additionally, if the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) proposes a candidate for PM's slot, the alliance will also consider that.