LAHORE – Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday appeared before theSupreme Court Lahore registry in a suo motu case regarding the provision ofclean drinking water to people and the disposal of large quantities ofuntreated wastewater.

During the hearing, Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar welcomed thechief minister in court and thanked him for his appearance, saying: “MianSahib I have a feeling you will be the next prime minister of Pakistan.”

“Whosoever holds the power in next general elections, should seriouslyconsider you as the prime minister,” the CJP told the CM on a lighter note.

On this, Shehbaz Sharif replied, “Why are you after my job?”.

The chief justice responded, “Your own people are after you.” He added, “Iassure you there will be free and fair elections in the country from nowon. I keep repeating this”.

The CM informed the court about various power and water developmentprojects underway in Punjab, which was appreciated by the bench.

The CJP also termed Punjab’s performance better than other provinces ofPakistan, saying “you (Shehbaz Sharif) are the only politician who respectsthe apex court.”

With regards to the clean water case, the chief justice remarked that thewater in his own chamber was found contaminated. Shehbaz assured the courtto resolve the problem.

After assuring the court that the provincial government will provide acomprehensive plan regarding safe drinking water within three days, Shehbazexited the courtroom.