Nawaz Sharif
Nawaz Sharif, born Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif on December 25, 1949, in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan, hails from an upper-middle-class family. His father, Muhammad Sharif, founded the Ittefaq and Sharif groups, which laid the foundation for Nawaz’s future wealth. Nawaz attended Saint Anthony High School and later pursued a business degree at Government College University (GCU), followed by a law degree from the University of Punjab.
Table of Key Details
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif |
| Date of Birth | December 25, 1949 |
| Birthplace | Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan |
| Political Party | Pakistan Muslim League (N) |
| Spouse | Kulsoom Nawaz (m. 1971; died 2018) |
| Children | Four (including Maryam Nawaz) |
| Education | Govt. College University, University of the Punjab |
| Professional Background | Businessman, Politician |
| Notable Offices Held | Prime Minister, Chief Minister of Punjab |
| Net Worth (2021) | Approx. Rs. 8.9 billion (US$31 million) |
| Major Businesses | Ittefaq Group, Sharif Group |
| Key Political Affiliations | Pakistan Muslim League, Islami Jamhoori Ittehad |
Political Career Beginnings
Nawaz’s entry into politics was motivated by the nationalization policies of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, which significantly impacted his family’s business. In 1980, Nawaz became the Finance Minister of Punjab under the military government of General Zia-ul-Haq, who was keen on promoting urban leaders. Nawaz’s tenure saw economic liberalization and privatization, which contributed to his rising influence.
As Chief Minister of Punjab
In 1985, backed by the military, Nawaz Sharif was elected Chief Minister of Punjab, Pakistan’s wealthiest province. His administration focused on infrastructure development and economic policies that fostered growth. Nawaz’s close ties with military leaders and senior army generals, including ISI Director-General Hamid Gul, cemented his political base.
Rise to Prime Minister
First Term (1990-1993)
Nawaz became the Prime Minister of Pakistan for the first time in 1990, leading the conservative Islamic Democratic Alliance. His initial term was marked by economic liberalization and privatization, but his government was dismissed in 1993 by President Ghulam Ishaq Khan.
Leader of the Opposition
Following his ousting, Nawaz served as the Leader of the Opposition from 1993 to 1996, opposing Benazir Bhutto’s government. His tenure was marked by political rivalry and maneuvering.
Second Term (1997-1999)
Re-elected in 1997, Nawaz’s second term as Prime Minister saw significant constitutional amendments, including the controversial Thirteenth Amendment, which stripped the President of the power to dissolve Parliament. His tenure ended abruptly in 1999 when he was overthrown by a military coup led by General Pervez Musharraf, leading to his imprisonment and subsequent exile.
Return to Power
Third Term (2013-2017)
Nawaz returned to Pakistan in 2011, and his party, the Pakistan Muslim League (N), won the 2013 elections, marking his third term as Prime Minister. His administration focused on economic reforms, infrastructure development, and tackling energy crises.
Legal Troubles and Exile
In 2017, the Supreme Court of Pakistan disqualified Nawaz from office due to revelations from the Panama Papers. In 2018, he was sentenced to ten years in prison for corruption but was granted bail for medical treatment in London. Nawaz spent several years in exile before returning to Pakistan in 2023.
Recent Developments
In 2023, Nawaz Sharif returned to Pakistan after four years of exile. The Islamabad High Court acquitted him in the Avenfield and Al-Azizia Steel Mills cases, marking a significant legal victory for the former Prime Minister.
Conclusion
Nawaz Sharif’s political journey is marked by significant achievements and controversies. From his rise as a prominent industrialist to becoming Pakistan’s longest-serving Prime Minister, his career reflects the complexities of Pakistani politics. Despite numerous challenges, including military coups and legal battles, Nawaz remains a key figure in Pakistan’s political landscape.