Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Senator Irfan-ul-Haque Siddiqui has firmly denied rumours that party leader Nawaz Sharif plans to run for president. Siddiqui called the claims “baseless table stories,” insisting there have been no such discussions within the party. “Nawaz Sharif has neither shown interest in the presidency nor is there any attempt to change the system for him,” he clarified.
These statements came amid speculation that President Asif Ali Zardari may soon resign—rumours that were quickly dismissed by political leaders and government officials. Siddiqui said the president remains committed to his constitutional role and has not created any roadblocks for the federal coalition. He added, “We’re in a working alliance with PPP, and the system is functioning smoothly. There’s no reason to disturb it.”
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also rejected the rumours, calling them part of a “malicious campaign” targeting key state figures. In a strongly worded post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Naqvi said, “There is no discussion—nor has there ever been—about the president being asked to step down.” He also ruled out any ambitions by the army chief to take over the presidency.
Naqvi further added that those behind this campaign are trying to undermine Pakistan’s leadership and stability. He claimed that President Zardari is aware of “who is spreading these lies, their reasons, and who benefits from it.” The interior minister also reassured the public that the coalition government remains united and focused on national progress.
The statements by Siddiqui and Naqvi come at a time of heightened political chatter, especially following legal developments involving prominent figures. However, both leaders have urged the public and media to avoid giving weight to rumours not backed by fact, emphasizing instead the need for unity and institutional trust.