CM Shehbaz off to London on Sept 23

—Will meet elder Sharif and Kulsoom Nawaz

—Both Sharifs to discuss selection of new finance minister

LAHORE: Amid calls for resignation over the Model Town enquiry report, Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to leave for London on September 23 to discuss the evolving political situation in the country with his elder brother and party leader, Nawaz Sharif.

It was reported that the younger Sharif is going to London to enquire after the health of his sister-in-law Kulsoom Nawaz, who has undergone three surgeries related to the treatment of her throat cancer.

However, sources said that the purpose of the Punjab CM’s visit is not just confined to a courtesy call.

“The two Sharifs will discuss the emerging political situation, particularly with reference to the corruption cases being heard against them in Pakistan,” said the sources, adding that the selection of the new finance minister will also be on their agenda.

“The final decision will be announced by Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on his return to Pakistan.”

Moreover, the news about Shehbaz’s departure coincided with the Lahore High Court’s orders to release the judicial enquiry report prepared by Justice Ali Baqar Najafi on the killings of at least 14 Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) workers in Lahore’s Model Town locality on July 17, 2014.

Earlier, sources said that Sartaj Aziz is the most probable replacement for Dar but another name being seriously considered for the most important ministry after the PM’s Office, is of Federal Minister for Interior Ahsan Iqbal, who has been in charge of the Planning Ministry and has experience in executing development projects.

“Since it is election year, Nawaz Sharif would want a trusted aide to head the ministry. Although the names of MNA Pervaiz Malik and Privatisation Commission Chairman Miftah Ismail are also being considered, it is likely that the coveted position would either go to Sartaj Aziz or Ahsan Iqbal.”