Nawaz Sharif has been appointed as patron-in-chief of Lahore Authority for Heritage Revival by his daughter Maryam Nawaz. He will oversee the restoration of colonial-era buildings in Lahore. The opposition has criticized this role as a mere consolation after the 2024 elections, highlighting Nawaz’s political challenges.
Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has recently accepted a new position within the government of his daughter, Maryam Nawaz, in Punjab. He has been appointed as the patron-in-chief of the Lahore Authority for Heritage Revival (LAHR) and will be responsible for overseeing the restoration of numerous colonial-era buildings located in Lahore’s old city.
This appointment has prompted immediate criticism from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by jailed former Premier Imran Khan. An opposition leader, Shaukat Basra, expressed skepticism regarding Nawaz’s new role, suggesting it is a mere consolation after his party’s defeat in the 2024 elections.
Basra noted that Nawaz Sharif had been living quietly since his party’s loss, and stated, “It will be better for Nawaz’s health to keep himself busy in some work like restoration of old buildings as a retired politician.” He commented on the military establishment’s decision to select Nawaz’s brother, Shehbaz Sharif, over him for the prime ministership.
The government has designated over 100 buildings in Lahore as historical heritage sites. Nawaz Sharif stated, “Old Lahore is incredibly beautiful and must be restored to its original form. Preserving our lost heritage is a national duty.”
In this new role, Nawaz will engage with the Walled City Authority to formulate a comprehensive restoration plan for Lahore’s heritage.
Nawaz Sharif’s recent appointment as patron-in-chief of the Lahore Authority for Heritage Revival reflects his continued influence in Pakistani politics, particularly under the administration of his daughter. While his role aims to preserve Lahore’s historical sites, it has not been free from political criticism, especially from opponents. The emphasis on cultural restoration may serve as a strategic move to maintain Nawaz’s public presence amidst political setbacks.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
