In a highly anticipated move, former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Raja Riaz has officially joined the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party. This comes as a surprise, considering Riaz previously served as the opposition leader against the PML-N government in the National Assembly. The announcement of Riaz’s membership was made after his meeting with PML-N leaders Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif in London.
The PML-N expressed their satisfaction with Riaz’s decision and stated that he expressed complete confidence in Nawaz Sharif’s leadership during their meeting. Party president Shehbaz Sharif publicly announced Riaz’s membership in a media talk in London, expressing hope that his inclusion would provide great strength to the party.
Riaz, in turn, thanked the Sharif brothers for their trust and assured them that he would contribute to improving and enhancing the PML-N’s standing. He also eagerly anticipated the return of Nawaz Sharif to Pakistan.
Raja Riaz’s appointment as the opposition leader in the National Assembly in May 2022 after the PTI government’s ouster was a significant development. He had been one of the most prominent PTI dissidents before being expelled from the party in August 2023. Riaz’s decision to join the PML-N had been expected, as he had previously expressed his desire to contest the upcoming elections on a PML-N ticket.
Former PTI colleague Fawad Chaudhry playfully noted that Riaz had provided countless services to the previous government as the opposition leader. He regarded Riaz’s membership as a token of gratitude for his contributions. On the other hand, PTI leader Taimur Jhagra criticized Riaz more directly.
In conclusion, Raja Riaz’s official joining of the PML-N marks a significant turning point in Pakistan’s political landscape. With his extensive experience and influence, Riaz’s addition to the party is expected to strengthen the PML-N as they navigate future challenges and formulate their strategies for the upcoming elections.