The PTI and PPP have claimed that the return of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was part of “some deal” or “London plan”, as the PML-N prepares for October 21.

“The situation is becoming like that where politicians are commenting that whatever is happening or going to happen is because of some deal or dialogue,” PPP Punjab General Secretary Hassan Murtaza said in an interview with Spot Light with Munizae Jahangir that was aired on Aaj News on Monday.

He was asked whether Nawaz’s homecoming on October 21 was part of some deal or not. The N-league is set to stage a rally in Minar-e-Pakistan where the former prime minister is expected to address a gathering after landing in Pakistan.

PTI Senator Mohammad Humayun Mohmand and PML-N leader Daniyal Chaudhry were also on the show.

“We have never said that Nawaz was punished rightly. We have always said it is a matter of court and he should approach courts and surrender before it,” Murtaza said, adding that the party has no issue with Nawaz approaching courts upon returning to Pakistan.

“We want restoration of democracy. We think if ‘same thing’ has happened then who will save democracy,” the PPP leader said. He wondered what impression the PML-N supremo would give if he addressed the rally without taking bail and approaching courts.

In reaction, PML-N leader Daniyal Chaudhry advised the PPP leader to not get jealous.

“We are not waiting for any deal or dheal [ease],” he said and added that laws would be followed when his party leader came. He claimed that Nawaz would have a big rally and his welcome would not be less than Ruhollah Khomeini [former supreme leader of Iran]. Tens of thousands of people will be there.“

He went on to add that Nawaz was eligible for the seat of prime minister. “He [Nawaz] will be back in action and lead the campaign and become the PM for the fourth time.”

PTI Senator Mohmand alleged that the PML-N leaders have always visited and left the country after cutting deals. He did not mention with whom.

“If they [PML-N] think they will get a vote then why did they cancel rallies as they knew no one is coming.”

When asked, the PPP leader said that his party has never seen “quarters concerned” to seek any relief from them.

But he reiterated that there was no “level-playing field” as the district administration was running and making appointments in the province. He was hopeful that the PPP would give a surprise in general elections.