Nation witnessed a seismic shift in the aftermath of the 2024 elections, leaving two prominent figures, Mian Nawaz Sharif of the PML-N and Imran Khan of the PTI, grappling with the unexpected turns of fate. In this intricate game of power, it appears that the biggest “victim” is none other than the seasoned politician, Mian Nawaz Sharif. A closer examination reveals a carefully orchestrated plan that ultimately led to the demise of his political career. Nawaz Sharif faced defeats in key constituencies, such as Mansehra and Lahore, signaling the beginning of the end for his political journey. However, it becomes evident that these defeats were engineered to create a facade of vulnerability, concealing the true machinations at play. The defeat of his close associates, including Mian Javed Latif, Khurram Dastgir Khan, Saad Rafiq, and Rana Sanaullah, further contributed to the unraveling of his political empire. The Pakistan Peoples’ Party, led by the astute Asif Ali Zardari, strategically communicated a clear message that Nawaz Sharif would not be accepted as the prime minister. This paved the way for Shahbaz Sharif, Mian Nawaz Sharif’s brother, to take the reins during the PDM era. Zardari, with his intricate chess moves, seemed to have successfully marginalized Nawaz Sharif, positioning Shahbaz Sharif as the more viable candidate. Speculation arises regarding the role of Zardari in this political maneuvering. The narrative suggests that Zardari, recognizing Nawaz Sharif’s limitations due to old age and health concerns, strategically steered the course towards Shahbaz Sharif. This not only thwarted Nawaz Sharif’s political ambitions but also set the stage for potential dominance by Zardari if he ascends to the presidency.

The potential division within the Muslim League-N adds another layer to this political drama. While Nawaz Sharif’s faction weakens, Shahbaz Sharif assumes the driving seat. Zardari, it seems, has played the chessboard masterfully, removing a formidable rival and orchestrating the pieces to his advantage. Hinting Zardari’s possible future presidency and the influence it could wield over Shahbaz Sharif. The author suggests that Bilawal, Zardari’s son, might not take a prominent position in the minority government but focus on reviving PPP in Punjab, where PML-N’s recent electoral weaknesses have left a political vacuum. On the flip side, paints a challenging picture for Imran Khan and the PTI. Despite being the actual winners, the burden of ruling seems to have cost them political success.  Imran Khan’s decision to stay in the opposition benches, coupled with the unconventional alliance with the Shia organization, raises eyebrows and invites criticism. The potential splintering of Tehreek-e-Insaf and the looming possibility of members defecting due to financial incentives add to the uncertainties surrounding the party’s future. It seems that a government under PDM2, led by Shahbaz Sharif, facing significant challenges, both in terms of political stability and economic crises. The need to repay substantial international debts looms large, and Shahbaz Sharif’s diplomatic efforts to secure aid become pivotal for the government’s survival. While Nawaz Sharif grapples with the end of his political career, Zardari emerges as a strategic player, potentially shaping the future landscape of Pakistani politics. The PTI, despite being the actual winners, faces an uphill battle, navigating through alliances, dissent, and economic challenges. As the curtain falls on the era of senior politicians, a new generation prepares to take the reins, ensuring a dynamic and uncertain future for Pakistan’s political arena.

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