The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has finalized its candidates for two crucial by-elections. Hafiz Muhammad Nauman will contest from NA-129 Lahore, while Ali Haider Noor Khan Niazi has been nominated for PP-87 Mianwali.
The NA-129 seat fell vacant after the passing of veteran politician and former Punjab Governor Mian Muhammad Azhar, whereas PP-87 was vacated following the disqualification of PTI’s Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar, convicted in the May 9 violence case.
In a related development, the Punjab Assembly Secretariat has officially removed Bhachar as Opposition Leader. His conviction, along with PTI leaders Ahmad Chatha, Dr Yasmin Rashid, and Mian Mehmood ur Rasheed—who all received 10-year prison sentences—prompted the Election Commission to issue disqualification notices.
Ahmad Chatha represented NA-66 Wazirabad, while Bhachar had held the PP-87 Mianwali seat. These by-elections are being closely watched as a test of party strength amid shifting political currents.