Low-profile Nawaz 'fully backs hybrid setup'

ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister and PMLN supremo Nawaz Sharif is reportedly fully satisfied with the current political arrangement - commonly referred to as the “hybrid system”- and has no reservations about the role of the establishment in national affairs.

According to PMLN sources, Nawaz Sharif, while largely staying away from the media and direct political activity, remains a strong supporter of the Shehbaz Sharif-led federal government and the Punjab administration under his daughter, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

“Nawaz Sharif has no issues with the current system. In fact, he understands its boundaries and accepts its functioning without complaint,” a senior party source said, adding that rumours suggesting Nawaz’s unease with the outside influence in governance are “entirely baseless.”

Despite being less politically visible than in the past, largely due to personal reasons, Nawaz is occasionally seen attending official meetings of the Punjab government and holds sessions with selected foreign dignitaries and diplomats at his residence, often accompanied by Maryam Nawaz. Sources said he frequently shares political advice with her to strengthen her leadership.

The PMLN leader is said to be pleased with the performance of both Shehbaz and Maryam, and does not interfere in day-to-day federal matters. “He trusts Shehbaz Sharif completely and is content with his governance,” a party official stated.

During the 2024 general elections, although the PMLN campaign slogan focused on making Nawaz prime minister for a fourth time, a source said that Nawaz had already informed his closest ones that he had no intention of assuming the office again. Instead, he had offered Shehbaz Sharif the opportunity to lead the government.

Though Nawaz has not attended any federal-level official meetings alongside Shehbaz Sharif, it is understood that the prime minister does consult his elder brother on critical national matters from time to time.

Nawaz Sharif is said to have played a key role in the appointment of General Asim Munir as Chief of Army Staff. Following a significant military victory against India, General Munir was elevated to the rank of Field Marshal - a move that Nawaz Sharif welcomed.

While there have been speculations about Nawaz’s “frustrations”, the source emphasised that Nawaz remains aligned with the party’s current course and leadership structure, and has full faith in both the civilian and military arms of the hybrid governance model.