Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader, Miftah Ismail has disclosed that Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's departure from the party predates Maryam Nawaz's ascension, shedding light on internal party dynamics amidst evolving political landscapes. In an interview with a private news channel, Ismail criticized PML-N's electoral strategy, highlighting its lack of a compelling narrative compared to Imran Khan's resonant themes of combating inflation and oppression, which effectively galvanized voters. He emphasized the imperative for the new government to engage with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and initiate structural reforms, emphasizing the need for privatization and economic restructuring. Reflecting on PML-N's reservations regarding the 2018 elections, Miftah Ismail underscored the party's concerns and juxtaposed them with the current reservations of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), suggesting a cyclic pattern of political discontent.

Regarding Abbasi's departure and his differences with the party's leadership, Ismail elucidated that Abbasi's reservations centered on governance efficacy, advocating for constructive action post-election rather than pursuing a vote of no confidence. Ismail revealed that Abbasi had informed Nawaz Sharif of his decision to step aside when Maryam Nawaz assumed leadership, citing ideological alignment between Abbasi and himself. Furthermore, Ismail articulated the urgent need for an IMF agreement to curb inflation, advocating for increased taxation on affluent segments to alleviate economic pressures. He emphasized that further hikes in electricity and gas prices are untenable, urging a more equitable tax regime. In the realm of Pakistani politics, where strategic alliances and ideological alignments shape the landscape, Ismail's insights offer a glimpse into the complex interplay of personalities and policies within PML-N and the broader political arena.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)