On Tuesday, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) approved the nomination papers of Nawaz Sharif, the leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), for the NA-130 Lahore constituency.
This confirmation came two days after PML-N leader Bilal Yasin submitted the papers on behalf of Nawaz Sharif. The former prime minister filed nominations for both the Lahore and Mansehra constituencies, with scrutiny taking place on the same day. The party had prepared its legal team for potential objections to Sharif’s candidacy.
Bilal Yasin, addressing the media in Lahore alongside Nawaz Sharif’s lawyer Amjad Parvez, announced that the nomination papers had been accepted without objections. Yasin expressed confidence that Nawaz Sharif would win in the February 8 elections and become the prime minister for the fourth time. He also mentioned that the questions raised by returning officers during the scrutiny process had been adequately addressed.
Amjad Parvez explained that the ECP had established a portal for scrutinizing candidates’ documents, and Nawaz Sharif’s case met all the legal requirements. The lawyer quoted the returning officer as confirming the completeness of Sharif’s submission.
Geo News Lahore Bureau Chief Raees Ansari emphasized the significance of this development, especially considering earlier uncertainties surrounding discussions about Nawaz Sharif’s potential disqualification under the Act of Parliament. Ansari noted that NA-130 is Nawaz Sharif’s home constituency, and winning from there would make him eligible for the upcoming general polls scheduled for February 8. However, he mentioned the possibility of opponents raising objections, which could lead to a decision by the election tribunal.
Ansari highlighted that NA-130 includes significant areas like Gawalmandi and Anarkali, known as PML-N strongholds. Despite earlier discussions, the surveys indicated a clear PML-N stronghold in the constituency, making Nawaz Sharif a strong contender for victory. Bilal Yaseen was actively campaigning on behalf of Nawaz Sharif in NA-130.
