Shehbaz tapped to become prime minister if Nawaz is disqualified: sources

ISLAMABAD: In a high-level huddle of PML-N leaders on Friday, it was decided to install Chief Minister Punjab Shehbaz Sharif as the prime minister in the eventuality the apex court disqualifies Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Geo News reported citing sources. 

PML-N leader Khawaja Asif will most likely become interim prime minister for 45 days till Shehbaz is elected from a National Assembly seat.

It was also decided during the meeting that the party will utilise all legal and constitutional options available if the verdict goes against the premier. 

The meeting chaired by the premier was attended by Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif along with federal ministers, advisers and the legal team representing the Sharif family in the Panama Papers case.

The meeting reviewed the situation following developments in the Supreme Court. According to sources, the legal team briefed the prime minister on the Panama Papers case.

Speaking in Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Saath, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif rebuffed the media reports, saying: "the entire party is behind the leadership of Nawaz Sharif. There is no any prime ministerial candidate. There has been no discussion in the meeting on this issue".