Rana Sanaullah quashes rumours of leadership change after budget passage

ISLAMABAD: Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Saturday firmly rejected reports and speculation regarding any change in the Prime Minister's Office following the passage of the federal budget for 2026-27, describing such claims as baseless and misleading.

Speaking to journalists, the senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader said certain elements were deliberately spreading misinformation and fabricated narratives in an attempt to create uncertainty and political instability in the country.

Responding to a question about rumours regarding the replacement of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Rana Sanaullah categorically denied the reports and said there was no truth in such speculation.

He maintained that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was leading the country effectively and had significantly enhanced Pakistan's standing on the international stage.

"Pakistan has gained recognition and respect across the world due to the prime minister's leadership and diplomatic efforts," he said.

The adviser added that the premier's sincerity, tireless work ethic and commitment to addressing national challenges had earned widespread appreciation from various segments of society.

According to Sanaullah, the government's performance and the prime minister's determination to steer the country through economic and political challenges had strengthened public confidence in the administration.

Commenting on relations with opposition parties, the PM's adviser reiterated the government's commitment to democratic engagement and political dialogue.

He said the ruling coalition had always favoured negotiations and constructive political interaction, regardless of political differences.

Recalling his party's time in opposition, Sanaullah noted that despite facing legal cases and political pressures, the PML-N had continued to uphold democratic norms and institutions.

"The democratic process remains the best way forward for resolving political issues," he remarked.

Turning to regional developments, Rana Sanaullah welcomed recent progress regarding Iran and expressed optimism that the lifting of sanctions on Tehran would generate positive economic opportunities for Pakistan.

He said improved economic conditions in Iran could boost bilateral trade, enhance regional connectivity and create new avenues for economic cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

Analysts believe that greater regional stability and expanded economic engagement with Iran could provide Pakistan with significant opportunities in the fields of trade, energy and transportation.

Discussing the political situation in Gilgit-Baltistan, Sanaullah said the PML-N would fulfil its responsibilities as a constructive and effective opposition party in the region.

He noted that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had emerged as the largest political force in the recent elections and was currently engaged in consultations with other political parties regarding the formation of a coalition government.

The PML-N, he added, would continue to work for democratic stability and public welfare while holding the incoming administration accountable through parliamentary means.

The remarks come amid heightened political discussions following the approval of the federal budget and ongoing speculation regarding the country's political landscape, which government leaders insist has no bearing on the continuity of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's administration.