Sohail Warraich Criticizes Punjab’s Disregard for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Protocol

Lahore: In a recent column, senior journalist Sohail Warraich expressed his concerns over the lack of respect shown by Punjab’s top administration towards Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, despite his significant position. Warraich pointed out that while the ruling class usually enjoys extensive protocol, some leaders are experiencing changes in how they are treated, and Shehbaz Sharif seems to be one of them.
Writing in *Jang* newspaper, Warraich stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is not only “Sharif” by name but also by action. He described him as the only figure in the state system who, despite being the Chief Executive, continues to run the country with a hybrid form of governance, without showing any strain or frustration. Warraich noted that Sharif has had a deep belief for four decades that Pakistan’s future can be changed with hard work and sincerity.
Warraich mentioned Sharif’s optimism and confidence that by working diligently, civilian rule could be fully restored in Pakistan. He believes that the political incompetence and poor governance by politicians are the reasons the country is in a difficult situation. He also stressed that a collaboration between politicians and the military is essential to steer the country towards prosperity.
The journalist highlighted a recent event where Prime Minister Sharif inaugurated the Business Express Train from Lahore to Karachi, hosted by Minister of Railways Hanif Abbasi. During this event, the Prime Minister’s usual presence and energy were missing, likely due to exhaustion or the weight of his responsibilities. Despite being the country’s top executive, no provincial leader or senior officials from Punjab were present. Warraich criticized the absence of Punjab’s top brass, such as the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, and IG Police, stating that it goes against the expected protocol, which dictates that the provincial administration should accompany the Prime Minister during his visits.
Warraich compared this to the lack of attention President Asif Ali Zardari received during his visits, suggesting that it reflects a dangerous trend for the unity of the federation. He warned that if this disrespect starts to spread to Sindh and Balochistan, it could undermine the authority of the Prime Minister from Punjab.
Drawing historical references, Warraich recalled how during Nawaz Sharif’s visit to Sindh, Asif Ali Zardari ensured that Bilawal Bhutto accompanied him as a sign of goodwill. However, he observed that despite having a “preferred” and experienced team in Islamabad, the Prime Minister’s team has yet to deliver on the expected transformative changes, with political decisions still lagging behind. He also pointed to ongoing scandals, such as the sugar import and export issue, for which the Prime Minister’s team has not taken responsibility.
Warraich concluded by questioning why, if Shehbaz Sharif could bring change to the narrow lanes and heated markets of Lahore, he couldn’t bring similar transformation to Islamabad. He emphasized that people expect Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership to make significant changes not only in Lahore but throughout Pakistan, including in Islamabad’s governance structure.