Maryam Nawaz to run for Punjab CM slot

Maryam Nawaz has been named as PML-N's candidate for the position of Punjab chief minister, with a formal announcement expected soon. Amir Muqam would be the party’s potential choice for KP chief minister, accoridng to Captain (retd) Mohammad Safdar.

Following legal clearance from the courts, Nawaz Sharif, the supreme leader of PML-N, will contest elections for the National Assembly seat in NA-15 (Mansehra), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Safdar said, as reported by a local daily.

He confirmed that he has obtained nomination papers for the three-time prime minister and intends to submit them promptly. Notably, he disclosed his decision not to participate in the elections this time, expressing his aspiration to pursue a senatorial position.

In related developments, PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif is anticipated to file nomination papers for several constituencies, including NA-123, PP-158, and PP-164 in Lahore, along with papers for NA-242 in Karachi.

Maryam Nawaz is also expected to submit nomination papers for NA-119 and two provincial assembly seats in Lahore.

However, Aleem Khan, the president of IPP, said he would run for elections in NA-119, the same area where Maryam Nawaz might also run. Additionally, Aleem Khan plans to file nomination papers for two provincial assembly seats, PP-149 and PP-150 in Lahore.

During Wednesday's interviews led by the party's parliamentary board, over 400 party members competed for women's reserved seats.

Despite the nomination deadline of December 22, no final decision on women candidates for general seats has been reached. 

Party insiders suggest uncertainty, focusing on securing electives in Punjab, possibly sidelining dedicated women workers.

While women leaders express hope for broader representation, concerns arise about favoring PML-N insiders' relatives over deserving candidates. 

PML-N Punjab information secretary Azma Bokhari highlights the interviews' importance, anticipating increased female participation in the upcoming February polls. 

The party's Women Wing President, Nosheen Iftikhar, mentions a merit-based committee for nominating women on reserved seats.