Former PM Nawaz Sharif Returns to Pakistan From Self-Imposed Exile Ahead of General Elections

Sharif returns amid economic crisis and political turmoil, set to face challenges from corruption allegations and fierce political rival Imran Khan, despite being barred from running for office due to past court rulings.

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif returned to Pakistan on Saturday after four years of self-imposed exile in London, ahead of the general elections. His return coincides with major economic challenges for the country; issues that have only intensifed under the rule of his brother Shehbaz Sharif.
Sharif, who has thrice been elected as Prime Minister, was ousted in 2017 and sentenced to a seven-year prison term on multiple charges of corruption. In 2019, he was released on bail due to health problems and allowed to leave the country. He managed to evade arrest until recently when he was granted a protective bail allowing his return.
Despite not being allowed to run for office due to court rulings, Sharif intends to make a court appeal, with party members hinting at his aspirations for a fourth term as Prime Minister. He faces inevitable challenges in regaining public trust and assurance against his political opponent, Imran Khan.
Upon arrival, Sharif was set to travel to his stronghold, Lahore, where he was anticipated to address a massive rally of supporters. More than a million attendees were expected at the rally in Lahore.
Sharif faces numerous legal challenges; both arrest warrants and graft cases. Multiple courts have granted Sharif protection from arrest until October 24. These legal issues make his return highly precarious for Pakistan's political landscape.