Is Sharif government in trouble over leak

Bilwal advises Zardari against meeting PM in London.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday left for London for a “medical checkup” amid rumours his government could be in danger due to the recent Panama leaks scandal accusing the ruling family of making billions illegally.

London is to become the hub of Pakistan political activities in the aftermath of Panama leaks as Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader Asif Ali Zardari and Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan would also be in the city this week.

At the Lahore airport, PM Nawaz Sharif held informal meeting with his brother — chief minister Shahbaz Sharif, and finance minister Ishaq Dar. Mr Sharif later said he was going for a medical checkup and will be back in four-to-five days.

There was speculation that Mr Sharif might meet Russian President Vladimir Putin as he was flying via Moscow but the PM’s office did not confirm the reports.

During the visit, PM Sharif is expected to meet PPP co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari. PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto has advised his father Asif Ali Zardari against meeting Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif when he arrives in London. Sources said Mr Bilawal Bhutto telephoned Mr Zardari and discussed the controversy arising out of the Panama Papers. A senior PPP leader said Mr Bhutto advised Mr Zardari not to meet the Prime Minister as “any involvement or appearance with him could damage the party interests.”

Mr Bhutto, who is in Islamabad, also discussed the matter with other party leaders who echoed his sentiments.