In a candid conversation on Dawn News’s program “Dara Rakh,” People’s Party leader Khursheed Shah voiced strong opinions on several pressing political matters. He emphatically stated that Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa should retire upon completing his term, warning that any government move to extend his tenure would be met with opposition from the People’s Party. Shah criticized potential efforts to extend the tenure as “unnecessary games” that could tarnish the reputation of a good man.
Shah also addressed the internal dynamics of the Pakistan Muslim League (N), advising Nawaz Sharif against reclaiming the position of party president. He interpreted such a move as a sign of distrust in the current leadership of Shehbaz Sharif. “If there is a lack of faith in Shehbaz Sharif, then Maryam Nawaz should be considered for the presidency, but Nawaz Sharif should not take over the post,” Shah asserted. He suggested that Nawaz Sharif assume a more honorary role as the founder and patron of the party to avoid creating divisions.
In response to ongoing media speculation about the extension of the army chief’s tenure, Shah deferred any firm stance, noting that the matter would be resolved in due course and stressing the importance of parliamentary decision-making over individual opinions.
Shah’s remarks underscore the People’s Party’s firm stance on maintaining judicial independence and addressing internal party leadership challenges with a forward-looking approach.