The political journey of Pakistan's Nawaz Sharif

Early life and entry into politics

Born into a family of industrialists, Nawaz Sharif found his fortune in the steel manufacturing business, expanding the family-run Ittefaq Group. He made his foray into politics in the late 1970s and was appointed as the finance minister of Punjab in 1981.

Rise to power in Punjab

Sharif's rise in politics gained momentum as he developed close ties with the military leadership. His policies, which spurred economic growth in Punjab, impressed the generals. Under the backing of military dictator Zia ul-Haq, he assumed the role of chief minister of Punjab in 1985, a significant milestone in his political career.

First term as prime minister (1990-1993)

In 1990, Nawaz Sharif secured victory in the general elections, becoming Pakistan's prime minister for the first time. His tenure followed the dismissal of Pakistan's first female prime minister, Benazir Bhutto, by the then-president on charges of corruption.

Political turmoil and resignation (1993)

Sharif's first term was marked by conflicts with the president, resulting in the dismissal of his government on allegations of nepotism and corruption. Although the Supreme Court later reinstated his rule, Sharif and the president failed to reconcile, leading to their resignations.

Second term as prime minister (1997)

In the 1997 general elections, Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) won, and he became the prime minister for the second time. During his leadership, Pakistan conducted its first nuclear weapons test in response to India's nuclear tests.

Kargil conflict and ousting (1999)

Sharif's second term witnessed the Kargil conflict between Indian and Pakistani forces in the disputed Kashmir region. His falling out with the army commander, General Pervez Musharraf, led to his ousting in a military coup. He subsequently faced a life imprisonment sentence and went into exile in Saudi Arabia. He eventually returned to Pakistan in 2007.

Third term as prime minister (2013)

In a contentious general election in 2013, Sharif emerged victorious against his rival, Imran Khan, and assumed the role of prime minister for the third time.

Efforts for diplomacy with India

During his third term, Sharif sought to normalize relations with India, initiating trade talks in 2014. In a significant gesture, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Lahore to meet with him in 2015.

Legal troubles and exile (2017)

In 2017, Sharif was removed from office following a court verdict related to the Panama Papers revelations, which linked him to corruption. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption in July 2018. In December 2018, he faced further conviction on graft charges and was sentenced to seven years in prison, a move he claimed was politically motivated. Sharif was released on medical bail in October 2019 and later left Pakistan, residing in London, where he remained active in politics.