Former Pakistan prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, asserted on Saturday that his removal from office in 1999 by the late Gen Pervez Musharraf was a consequence of his opposition to the ill-fated Kargil operation. Emphasizing the significance of fostering positive relations with India and neighboring countries, the three-time prime minister raised questions about the premature termination of his tenure.
Expressing his bewilderment, Sharif stated, "I should be told why I was ousted in 1993 and 1999. When I opposed the Kargil plan saying it should not happen... I was ousted (by Gen Pervez Musharraf). And later what I said proved right". Speaking to ticket aspirants of his party, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), for the upcoming polls, he sought clarity on the circumstances surrounding each of his dismissals.
While highlighting his track record of accomplishments during his three terms, Sharif expressed uncertainty about the motives behind his removals, asserting, "I want to know why I was ousted every time."
Recalling diplomatic achievements during his premiership, he mentioned the visits of two Indian prime ministers to Pakistan. "We have delivered on every front. During my tenure as PM, two Indian prime ministers visited Pakistan. Modi sahab and Vajpayee sahab had come to Lahore," Sharif remarked, advocating for enhanced ties with India, Afghanistan, Iran, and China.
Expressing dismay at Pakistan's economic lag behind neighboring nations, Sharif criticized Imran Khan's government, attributing an economic downturn during its tenure. He credited his brother Shehbaz Sharif's government for rescuing the country from default in April 2022.
Criticizing Imran Khan's leadership as inexperienced, Sharif questioned the rationale behind entrusting the country's reins to him. He reiterated his call for accountability, directing it towards former military generals and judges involved in his government's ousting in 2017, asserting that those responsible for the nation's plight should face consequences.
Sharif, currently involved in party affairs for the upcoming February 8 general elections, has been vocal about accountability and the need to address issues that, according to him, have adversely affected the country.
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