LAHORE: Nawaz Sharif, the leader of PML-N, has finalized discussions regarding party candidates for three upcoming by-elections, making key decisions amid strategic adjustments in Lahore, Wazirabad, and Mianwali.
Wazirabad: Bilal Tarar to Contest
Sources within the party indicate that PML-N has chosen Bilal Tarar, the brother of Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar, to contest from the Wazirabad constituency. This decision marks a significant move in the party’s candidate selection process for the upcoming polls.
Lahore: Saad Rafique’s Role
In Lahore, the party leadership initially considered nominating senior leader Khawaja Saad Rafique. However, Rafique reportedly declined the nomination. Instead, discussions are ongoing to select Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan as the party’s candidate. Additionally, sources suggest Nawaz Sharif plans to nominate Rafique for a Senate seat in the near future.
Mianwali: Local Candidates Under Review
For the Mianwali seat, PML-N has shortlisted two local contenders. Final deliberations are expected in the coming days, with an announcement anticipated before the deadline set by the Election Commission.
Election Schedule and Nominations
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced the schedule for the by-elections in three crucial constituencies — NA-129 Lahore, NA-66 Wazirabad, and PP-87 Mianwali with polling scheduled for September 18. Nomination papers can be submitted until August 6, and a provisional list of candidates will be published on August 7. The allocation of election symbols is set for August 26, after which official campaign activities will commence.
The NA-129 seat in Lahore became vacant following the demise of senior PTI leader Mian Azhar. The other two seats, NA-66 Wazirabad and PP-87 Mianwali, were vacated due to the disqualification of Ahmed Khan Bhachar, former Opposition leader in the Punjab Assembly, and MNA Ahmed Chattha, respectively.
