The district administration of Lahore has granted permission to the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to organize a massive rally at Minar-e-Pakistan on October 21 which will be addressed by the party’s supremo Nawaz Sharif.
The rally marks the anticipated return of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to Pakistan after a self-imposed exile of four years. Nawaz Sharif, the PML-N supremo, left for London in 2019, citing medical reasons, amidst his seven-year jail term.
PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif confirmed his brother’s return date last month, emphasizing Nawaz’s readiness to face any challenges upon his arrival.
Currently in Saudi Arabia, Nawaz Sharif is scheduled to travel to Pakistan via Dubai on October 21, where he will address the rally at Minar-e-Pakistan. His legal team is expected to apply for his protective bail in the coming week, preparing for potential legal challenges upon his return.
Leading up to Nawaz Sharif’s homecoming, the PML-N is gearing up for what they are calling a “historic welcome” for their leader.
Shehbaz Sharif, in particular, has been actively engaging with the public, addressing rallies, and holding meetings with various groups to drum up support for the Minar-e-Pakistan event.
In an official communication dated October 14, the deputy commissioner of Lahore confirmed the issuance of permission for the rally, subject to stringent conditions. The organizers provided an undertaking, assuming full responsibility in case of any untoward incidents. However, the permission came with specific guidelines, including the establishment of emergency exits and close coordination with the police.
The communication emphasized that no speeches against constitutional offices, armed forces, or the judiciary would be allowed. Additionally, any display of fire and the use of objectionable slogans were strictly prohibited.
The organizers were strongly advised to undertake all necessary precautionary measures to ensure the safety of participants and the general public, considering the prevailing security situation and threat alerts.
The Lahore deputy commissioner further confirmed that the PML-N had applied for the rally, and the administration was in the process of granting a Non-Objection Certificate (NOC).
To bolster security measures, the district administration conducted a meeting of its district intelligence committee, reviewing the law and order situation ahead of the rally.
The forthcoming rally holds immense significance for the PML-N, marking a crucial moment in Pakistani politics.
