Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif is a major figure in Pakistan’s history. His political career has seen incredible highs and deep lows. He served as the Prime Minister of Pakistan three times. This makes him the longest-serving prime minister in the country’s history. His journey shows the complex nature of Pakistani politics. This article provides a clear timeline of his important moments.
The Early Years and Entry into Politics
Nawaz Sharif was born in Lahore in 1949 to a wealthy industrial family. His father, Muhammad Sharif, founded the Ittefaq Group, a major steel company. Nawaz studied business at Government College University and later earned a law degree from Punjab University.
His political journey started in the late 1970s. He first joined the Punjab cabinet as the finance minister. This role gave him valuable experience in government. His early work caught the attention of military ruler General Zia ul Haq. This support helped him grow his political influence quickly.
Rise to Prominence in the 1980s
In 1985, Nawaz Sharif became the Chief Minister of Punjab. This was a significant step. He held this position for five years. During this time, he focused on developing infrastructure in the province. Many roads and public projects were started under his leadership. He gained a reputation as a pro-development leader.
His policies supported business and industry. This made him popular among the business community. His work in Punjab built a strong political base. It prepared him for a role on the national stage. By the end of the 1980s, he was a leading figure in the Pakistan Muslim League.
First Term as Prime Minister (1990-1993)
Nawaz Sharif became the Prime Minister of Pakistan for the first time in 1990. His government focused on economic growth. He introduced policies of privatization and deregulation. Many state-owned companies were sold to private buyers. The goal was to make the economy more efficient.
His government launched major infrastructure projects. The most notable was the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway. This project became a symbol of his vision for a modern Pakistan. He also worked to improve Pakistan’s relationships with Central Asian countries.
However, his first term was cut short. In 1993, President Ghulam Ishaq Khan dismissed his government. The Supreme Court later restored his government. But political tensions remained high. Nawaz Sharif eventually resigned, leading to new elections.
Second Term as Prime Minister (1997-1999)
Nawaz Sharif returned to power with a huge majority in 1997. His party, the Pakistan Muslim League (N), won a landslide victory. This strong mandate allowed him to make major changes. He passed the 13th and 14th Amendments to the Constitution. These amendments strengthened the power of the prime minister.
A major event of his second term was Pakistan’s nuclear tests in 1998. The tests were a response to India’s nuclear tests. This made Pakistan a declared nuclear power. While it brought national pride, it also led to international sanctions. These sanctions hurt the country’s economy.
His second term also ended abruptly. In 1999, General Pervez Musharraf led a military coup. Nawaz Sharif was removed from power, arrested, and later sent into exile in Saudi Arabia. This marked the beginning of a long period away from Pakistan.
A Period of Exile and Return
Nawaz Sharif spent nearly eight years in exile. He lived in Saudi Arabia and later in London. During this time, he remained active in politics from afar. He worked with other political parties to restore democracy in Pakistan. In 2006, he signed the Charter of Democracy with Benazir Bhutto. This was a pledge to work together against military rule.
He attempted to return to Pakistan in 2007 but was immediately deported. He finally made a successful return later that year. His return energized his supporters and changed the political landscape. His party participated in the 2008 general elections.
Third Term as Prime Minister (2013-2017)
In 2013, Nawaz Sharif made a historic comeback. His party won the general election, and he became prime minister for the third time. This was the first time in Pakistan’s history that one civilian government peacefully transferred power to another.
His third term focused on the economy and energy crisis. He launched the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This was a massive collection of infrastructure projects funded by China. It aimed to connect Pakistan with its neighbors and boost economic growth. His government also worked to reduce power shortages in the country.
However, his third term was also marked by challenges. Political opponents held large protests. Then, in 2016, the Panama Papers leak named his family in connection with offshore companies. This led to a major political and legal crisis.
Disqualification and Legal Battles
The Panama Papers case led to an investigation by Pakistan’s Supreme Court. In July 2017, the court disqualified Nawaz Sharif from holding public office. He had to step down as Prime Minister. This was a major blow to his political career.
Following his disqualification, he faced several corruption cases. In 2018, he was convicted in one of the cases and sentenced to prison. He spent time in jail before being granted bail for medical treatment. He traveled to London for medical care in late 2019 and remained there for several years.
Recent Political Developments
Nawaz Sharif returned to Pakistan in October 2023, and observers saw his return as a major event ahead of the 2024 general elections. Authorities cleared the legal hurdles, allowing him to contest the elections, and his party, the PML-N, performed strongly.
Although he did not become prime minister for a fourth time, he remains a powerful figure. His brother, Shehbaz Sharif, became the prime minister, leading a coalition government. Nawaz Sharif continues to influence the party and national politics from his position as a senior leader. His journey reflects a career of resilience, ambition, and constant struggle.
For more on Nawaz Sharif’s recent movements, check out Nawaz Sharif Returns to London.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many times was Nawaz Sharif the Prime Minister of Pakistan?
Nawaz Sharif served as the Prime Minister of Pakistan three times: from 1990 to 1993, 1997 to 1999, and 2013 to 2017.
2. What was a major project during his first term?
The Lahore Islamabad Motorway is one of the most famous infrastructure projects from his first term as Prime Minister.
3. Why was he removed from office in 1999?
He was removed from office in a military coup led by General Pervez Musharraf in October 1999.
4. What is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)?
CPEC is a large-scale development project started during his third term. It involves building roads, railways, and energy projects with Chinese investment.
5. Why was Nawaz Sharif disqualified in 2017?
The Supreme Court of Pakistan disqualified him from holding public office in connection with the Panama Papers case.
