KARACHI: Former Sindh governor and senior leader of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Muhammad Zubair, on Sunday announced his departure from the PML-N over some unspecified “reservations” within the party.
Zubair’s decision to part ways with the PML-N adds his name to the list of prominent figures who have recently distanced themselves from the ruling party, including former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and ex-finance minister Miftah Ismail.
While declining to elaborate on the specific issues prompting his exit, Zubair said that he would deliberate on his future political journey in consultation with his associates.
His departure from the PML-N comes amidst a period of heightened criticism directed towards the incumbent government formed after the February 8 elections. Zubair had previously hinted at dissatisfaction with the party leadership.
Zubair reaffirmed his allegiance to Nawaz Sharif’s stance of resistance, contrasting it with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s purportedly conciliatory approach. He emphasized his commitment to national politics but refrained from disclosing his future party affiliation. “It’s clear that I will (continue to) do politics, but I haven’t decided from what platform or party I will do politics,” he said.
Zubair emphasized his alignment with Nawaz Sharif’s political ideology and acknowledged the opportunities afforded to him within the party. However, he lamented a departure from principled politics.
Shahid Khaqan Abbasi had on April 8 approached the Election Commission of Pakistan for registration of a new political party.
Zubair, who was a prominent leader of the PML-N, was sworn in as the Sindh governor on February 2, 2017. He served in the post for more than one year till August 2018.
