PML-N Denies Tickets to Key Leaders, Including Ayaz Sadiq, for Lahore’s NA Seats

Sources revealed on Thursday that the PML-N has opted not to grant party tickets to several high-profile leaders, including Ayaz Sadiq, for National Assembly seats in Lahore. The party has shortlisted candidates for 12 out of 14 constituencies in the Punjab capital, with Naseer Bhatta and Waheed Alam Khan failing to secure the party’s endorsement.

The upcoming elections in Pakistan are scheduled for February 8, and Punjab, holding the highest number of seats in the lower house of Parliament, plays a pivotal role in shaping the country’s political landscape. The victor in this province gains an advantage in forming the federal government.

Notably, the PML-N has decided against awarding party tickets to former NA speaker Ayaz Sadiq, Rana Mashhood, Marghoob Ahmad, and Rana Mubashir. However, there is speculation that Sadiq might be offered a ticket in the Senate or a by-election.

Sources added that the PML-N is facing a dilemma in choosing between Istehkam-i-Pakistan Party President Aleem Khan and the party’s Malik Riaz for NA 117, as both parties are reportedly seeking seat adjustments.

In a November interview, analyst Hamid Mir suggested that PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif would require the support of former PTI leaders Jahangir Khan Tareen and Pervez Khattak to become prime minister for the fourth time in his life.

Prominent candidates shortlisted for key constituencies include Hamza Shehbaz for NA 118, Maryam Nawaz for NA 119, and Sohail Shaukat Butt for NA 120. Sheikh Rohail Asghar is expected to represent NA 121, Khawaja Saad Rafique for NA 122, and Shehbaz Sharif for NA 123.

Attaullah Tarar is a potential candidate for NA 127, likely to face PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Hafiz Noman and Mehr Ishtiaq Muslim are leading contenders for PML-N’s candidates from NA 128 and NA 129, respectively. There are expectations that PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif might contest elections from NA 130.