Shahid Khaqan Abbasi: PML-N's leadership better than others until 2023

During an event at a local hotel, former Prime Minister and Awam Pakistan Party chief Shahid Khaqan Abbasi reflected on his political career. He recounted entering politics in 1988, noting that although his father was well-regarded in politics, he initially ran as an independent candidate after returning from abroad. Despite the Pakistan Peoples Party's (PPP) rise to power in 1988, Abbasi had a meeting with Benazir Bhutto but ultimately decided to support Nawaz Sharif, with whom he had previously met and informed that he could not join his party due to having contested against him.

Abbasi described how he cast his vote against Benazir Bhutto, despite 22 members of the IJI voting for her, highlighting his pivotal role in the decision-making process. He praised Nawaz Sharif's 1990s policies, stating that he had a deep understanding of the Muslim League’s politics and leadership until 2023. Abbasi emphasized that only Nawaz Sharif had the right to criticize him and reiterated that he had never sought a ministry from him.

Reflecting on his political journey, Abbasi mentioned spending 20 years in opposition and five years in power, noting that even within his party, it was challenging to express dissent. He regarded having disagreements with the party leader as a significant political achievement and admitted to not knowing beforehand about being offered the Prime Ministership.

He also addressed his defeat in the 2018 elections, stating that it did not concern him and that he had rejected offers to discuss electoral numbers in exchange for rewards. Abbasi mentioned his refusal to contact the establishment after 2018 and detailed his imprisonment in Adiala Jail, where he was placed among individuals convicted of serious crimes.

Abbasi criticized the Muslim League-N for not honoring the vote, a principle he believes was accepted by the people. He revealed that he had told Nawaz Sharif in 2023 that he would not contest elections again, and reiterated that Nawaz Sharif had never asked him to engage in corruption or illegal activities. Abbasi concluded by emphasizing that his departure from the Muslim League-N was due to their failure to honor the vote, not due to any doubts or opposition towards the party itself.