PTI mulls Sanam Javaid as Opposition leader in Punjab

Lahore: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Sanam Javaid could be nominated as the opposition leader in Punjab in case Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Senior Vice-President Maryam Nawaz assumed the role of chief minister, the speculations surfaced on Sunday.

The reports suggested that certain factions within the PTI recommended name of Sanam Javaid for the role of opposition leader in Punjab. Sanam would be brought to assembly through the reserved seat. But it is yet to be cleared that whether the PTI will be allowed reserved seats or not.

Sanam has been behind the bars for her alleged involvement in May 9 riots.

The recommendations came after PTI leader Barrister Saif made an announcement that they would play the role of opposition in Punjab and in the center.

Initially permitted by the Supreme Court of Pakistan to contest elections from NA-119, NA-120, and PP-125 following an appeal against the election tribunal's verdict on her nomination papers, Sanam Javaid, known for her vocal criticism of PML-N leadership, later withdrew from the NA-119 candidacy, where she was set to compete against Maryam.

PTI has secured 96 seats in the National Assembly and 116 seats in Punjab as per the reports.

Maryam Nawaz, who has been nominated for the chief minister's office,  had won the PP-159 Lahore-I seat.

On other hand, the PTI nominated Mian Aslam Iqbal as the candidate for the Punjab chief minister office if the PTI opted to form the government in Punjab.

According to the reports, Maryam Nawaz, after being nominated for the office of Punjab chief minister, is being briefed on development and administrative matters in Punjab.