News Analysis |
Pundits believe Punjab law minister Rana Sanaullah is favorite to take on the presidency of the Punjab chapter of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). Rana has always been a loyal leader of the party and is known for his close allegiances with Shehbaz Sharif, which makes him favorite.
Many strong contenders have emerged to take up the most coveted position. Some of the main candidates for the position other than Sanaullah include Speaker Punjab Assembly Rana Iqbal, provincial Secretary General Raja Ashfaq Sarwar, and son of the interim president of PML-N Hamza Shehbaz Sharif.
Though nothing is clear as yet, it is believed that depending on the decision of Chief Minister Punjab, any candidate might be chosen but nothing is clear for now. There is also speculation that CM Punjab might keep his position as the head of the Punjab chapter, given the challenges facing PML-N.
PML-N is facing many challenges as a party. The verdict on references in Accountability Court is due soon which may create more hurdles for the party, which requires astute and able leadership.
However, if he opts to leave the place, and presumably Ashfaq Sarwar is given the place, it will vacant the post of secretary general which will also have to be filled in. In that case, Joint Secretary Raja Attique Sarwar which is the brother of Ashfaq Sarwar might take over. It looks highly unlikely that CM Punjab will let the two important positions go to one single family. It can apparently disturb the party set up in Punjab, with too much power allocated to one political family.
Given the situation as stakes are high, chances are bright for incumbent Law minister to take over as the party president of Punjab. Rana may be favorite to take the position due to his closeness with ‘House of Sharif’ but, many legislators of PML-N believe that Rana is a source of disintegration among the PML-N Punjab chapter.
Read more: Pressure on Rana Sanaullah mounts as 15 lawmakers threaten to resign
He allegedly brought division in the party which led to emergence of many groups. His ascendance to party presidency in Punjab could escalate this division. The mannerism and style of leadership of Provincial Speaker Rana Iqbal is appreciated among the legislators and many MPA’s believe that his diplomatic style and management abilities make him ideal for the position.
Moreover, with Shehbaz gone to center and most likely a candidate for the premiership of the country, he would not like to appoint someone who can bring disruptions and division within the party. Given the scenario, party may adhere to the harmless character like Iqbal to ensure control at the provincial level.
It would like someone who can consolidate party position and protect the existing vote bank. It makes this post a critical position as compared to Sindh, KP, and Baluchistan where party does not enjoy such a strong support.
Hamza Sharif has also been a long time favorite to take on the position. There were speculations earlier over his selection as a party president in Punjab. But the plan was later dropped because of lack of harmony in the house of Sharif over the issue. There were reports of a rift within the family which could not lead to his appointment.
His potential appointment may also discourage the senior leaders in Punjab, if the most sorted position in the province goes to father-son duo. Maryam was groomed for the center as she actively participated in the rallies across the country and hoped to take over a position in the party. Nothing concrete has emerged thus far in this regard. She continues to lead the charge against judiciary and establishment across Pakistan.
Read more: Imran demands Shehbaz and Rana Sanaullah resignation
Punjab is the biggest and most powerful province in Pakistan and PML-N is the biggest political party in the country with deep penetration and strongest support in the province. It would like someone who can consolidate party position and protect the existing vote bank. It makes this post a critical position as compared to Sindh, KP, and Baluchistan where party does not enjoy such a strong support.
Selecting a candidate which is accepted by all major groups, clans and biggest political families in the province is a major challenge. Shehbaz Sharif would like to appoint Sanaullah but it has its own negativities attached, due to his controversial character which may not be acceptable to factions within Punjab.
PML-N is facing many challenges as a party. The verdict on references in Accountability Court is due soon which may create more hurdles for the party, which requires astute and able leadership.