The Homecoming.

The return of Mian Nawaz Sharif to his hometown of Lahore was an event keenly observed and analyzed. It may have even surprised some within his own party with the efficiency of its organization. Scores of cars and thousands of people gathered at Minar e Pakistan on the evening of the 21st of October, as rose petals rained down from helicopters to welcome the three-time former premier back to his home city.

Mian Nawaz Sharif spoke candidly and warmly, exuding his usual folksy charm and consoling his listeners, assuring them that he had seen their vast numbers and had not forgotten the many tragedies he faced during his four-year exile. His message was one of hope, providing a much-needed boost in morale during these unprecedented economic difficulties. While it was expected that he wouldn't offer an exact roadmap, this public address was meant to convey the future of the former premier's political message, and the direction was clear. He is looking forward and will not dwell on anger or resentment. Economic progress, the prosperity of Pakistan's citizenry, and the country taking its respected and rightful place in the world were music to the ears of many, providing much-needed relief from the cacophony of doom and gloom seen on television talk shows over the past several years.

The undeniable success of the event in terms of numbers was apparent. The...