Hamza Shehbaz’s Prolonged Silence Raises Questions About Role in PML-N

Lahore:Former Punjab Chief Minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Hamza Shehbaz has remained largely absent from party affairs since losing the chief ministership. His quiet stance has sparked speculation within political circles and the party’s own ranks about his current role and political ambitions.

Hamza served as Punjab’s chief minister for nearly 82 days, during which he was criticized for failing to deliver any substantial governance outcomes. Since then, he has made limited public appearances and has been notably passive even after being named the opposition leader in the Punjab Assembly.

According to senior PML-N sources, Hamza has distanced himself from key party decisions and activities. While he occasionally visits the party secretariat and attends meetings, insiders claim he rarely offers input or proposals. “His lack of involvement is harming the party,” said one senior party member.

His apparent detachment became especially noticeable during the lead-up to the February 8 elections, where he was seen far less active compared to previous campaigns, allegedly contributing to the party’s underwhelming performance in Punjab.

Some speculate his silence may stem from disappointment over not being nominated as Punjab’s chief minister once again — a position that ultimately went to his cousin, Maryam Nawaz. However, no public statement or direct complaint has been made by Hamza in this regard. Party sources confirm that even Nawaz Sharif privately inquired whether Hamza was unhappy, to which he replied that he was merely caught up in personal commitments.

Party veterans recall Hamza’s past contributions, especially during the Musharraf era when he actively led the party during tough times and even endured jail time. In contrast, his current inactivity stands in stark contrast, with his political engagements now largely limited to low-profile interactions at the secretariat.

As the PML-N navigates a changing political landscape under Maryam Nawaz’s leadership in Punjab, Hamza Shehbaz’s future within the party remains uncertain — prompting questions about whether he still sees a political path forward or is choosing to take a backseat indefinitely.