Nawaz not to contest by-polls from NA-123

LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-N Quaid Nawaz Sharif has decided not to contest by-polls in NA-123 (Lahore) constituency.

Senator Pervaiz Rasheed of the PML-N said no final decision has been taken regarding Nawaz Sharif contesting by-polls from NA-123, and discussions and consultations were under way in this regard.

Talking to a private TV channel, he said the PML-N Quaid, however, desires to award the party ticket to a party worker, who rendered sacrifices during the Pervez Musharraf government. Pervaiz Rashid dispelled an impression that Nawaz Sharif wanted to avoid sitting in the National Assembly as only a member, adding that he would become part of the parliament.

Meanwhile, sources said the PML-N has been divided over the issue of Nawaz Sharif’s participation in by-polls. One group says the decision of not contesting the election would demoralise the party workers, while the other group says Nawaz Sharif remained premier twice, and he should avoid becoming the opposition leader or a member of the lower house.

Awami Muslim League President Sheikh Rashid Ahmed has said he had already predicted that Nawaz Sharif would not contest by-elections. He said the decision was not in the interest of the PML-N and democratic process in the country.

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