Nawaz Sharif Takes Office as Prime Minister of Pakistan in 2013

Name: Nawaz Sharif Takes Office as Prime Minister of Pakistan in 2013
Start: 1949-06-05
Location: Unspecified

Nawaz Sharif's Return to Power in Pakistan

On June 5, 2013, a significant turning point occurred in Pakistan's political landscape as Nawaz Sharif was sworn in as the Prime Minister for a third time. His election came after a tumultuous period marked by political upheaval, economic challenges, and security issues that plagued the nation. Sharif, a prominent figure in Pakistani politics and the head of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party, won the general elections held in May 2013 with a decisive mandate, showcasing the public's trust in his leadership.

Nawaz Sharif's ascent to the premiership was met with an air of optimism, as many hoped that his experience would be pivotal in steering Pakistan towards stability and growth. His previous terms in office from 1990 to 1993 and from 1997 to 1999 had been marked by economic reforms and infrastructural development, although both terms ended prematurely due to political and military interventions. This time, he aimed to address pressing issues such as energy shortages and terrorism while promoting economic expansion.

Nawaz Sharif's Political Background

Nawaz Sharif was born on December 25, 1949, in Lahore, Pakistan, into a wealthy industrial family. He initially ventured into politics in the 1980s, aligning closely with the military regime of General Zia-ul-Haq. His rise was swift, and he became the Chief Minister of Punjab—a critical province—before eventually assuming the role of Prime Minister. This background set the stage for his policies that focused on economic liberalization and privatization.

Major Goals During His Third Term

Upon taking office, Nawaz Sharif launched initiatives aimed at reforming Pakistan's ailing economy. His government prioritized tackling the crippling energy crisis, which caused widespread power outages affecting both households and industries. Additionally, he sought to improve relations with neighboring countries, particularly India, and aimed for a strategic foreign policy that would bolster Pakistan's position on the global stage.

The Challenges Ahead for Nawaz Sharif

Despite the optimism surrounding his election, Nawaz Sharif faced immense challenges. His government had to contend with rampant inflation, continuing security threats from extremist groups, and a divided political landscape. These hurdles tested his leadership abilities and commitment to reform.

The Security Situation Under Nawaz Sharif

Pakistan's security situation remained dire, with ongoing incidents of terrorism threatening the safety of its citizens. Sharif’s administration had to develop a robust counter-terrorism strategy to protect the populace and restore peace. His government proposed military operations in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) as a response to tackle the root cause of extremism.

The Economy and Nawaz Sharif's Reforms

The economy was another significant area of focus for Nawaz Sharif. He aimed to revitalize the industrial sector and attract foreign investment, alongside implementing policies for infrastructure development like road networks and energy generation projects. The success of these initiatives was deemed crucial for the country's economic revival and the public's continued support.

Fun Fact

Nawaz Sharif's Unique Political Journey

Nawaz Sharif is one of the few leaders in Pakistan's history to serve non-consecutively as Prime Minister, a testament to his resilience and enduring influence in Pakistani politics.