Maryam Nawaz faces controversy over luxury jet purchase; decision questioned amid financial crisis

New Delhi/Pakistan. In Pakistan, which is grappling with economic hardship and rising inflation, Maryam Nawaz has come to the centre of political and public debate over the purchase of an expensive government aircraft. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is facing allegations that the state government has purchased a state-of-the-art business jet at a cost of around 10 billion Pakistani rupees, while a large population of the country is facing economic crisis.

As soon as this issue came to the fore, opposition parties and common citizens have raised questions as to how justified such expenditure is when the country is struggling with financial pressure, debt and inflation.

Property and political background are also in discussion

Maryam Nawaz is the daughter of former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and belongs to one of the country’s most influential political families. She is a prominent leader of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N).

According to an affidavit filed with the Election Commission of Pakistan during the election, Maryam Nawaz declared her total assets to be approximately 842 million Pakistani rupees. The documents also state that she owns over 1,500 kanals (approximately 188 acres) of land in Lahore.

Declared assets include gold, bank deposits and shares

According to the nomination statement, he owns gold worth approximately ₹1.75 million, more than ₹10 million in various bank accounts, and shares worth approximately ₹12.2 million in several companies.
The affidavit also stated that he had taken a loan of approximately ₹29 million from his brother, Hassan Nawaz. Interestingly, the declaration did not include any personal vehicles registered in his name.

Family life and background

Maryam Nawaz’s husband, Muhammad Safdar Awan, is a former military officer who later entered active politics. He has ties to the Pakistan Army. The couple has three children.

Debate intensifies on economic situation vs government spending

Analysts say the controversy isn’t limited to the purchase of a single aircraft, but is sparking a broader discussion about Pakistan’s current economic situation, government priorities, and political accountability. The country, already grappling with challenges like foreign debt, currency devaluation, and inflation, has further sharpened questions about the use of public funds.