The Hindu : International : Shahbaz Sharif deported

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, May 12, 2004

International

International

Shahbaz Sharif deported

By B. Muralidhar Reddy

ISLAMABAD, MAY 11. The former Chief Minister of Punjab, Shahbaz Sharif, who today landed at the Lahore international airport from London via Abu Dhabi, could not even step out of the airport as he was deported back to Saudi Arabia in no time. Thus ended the much-publicised return of the exiled Opposition leader.

The dream of Mr. Sharif, brother of the former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, to lead a struggle for "restoration of true democracy" ended within fewer than 90 minutes. He was put on a special state plane and sent back to Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan Government was so `generous' that it had arranged at the airport a special visa to Mr. Sharif and his entourage. Mr. Sharif pleaded with the authorities that he was in not in a position to travel as he required immediate medical attention. A panel of doctors accompanied Mr. Sharif.

High drama preceded the arrival of the plane bringing Mr. Sharif along with a contingent of international media and representatives of international organisations. Police had sealed all routes to the airport and prevented workers of the Muslim League from reaching the venue.

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