PM Sharif's open-heart surgery underway

Sharif after passing night at his son Hussain Nawaz’s residence along with family members in London, reached hospital early morning for the surgery.

In the night elder Sharif advised his younger brother and Chief Minister of Punjab, Shahbaz Sharif over various matters, in an emotionally charged atmosphere ahead of his surgery.

According to the family sources, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has also advised the party leaders and workers not to visit him in the hospital to save the medical facility from any likely disturbance in its work.

Earlier, Prime Minister’s spokesman Musaddiq Malik had said in a statement that the premier will remain in intensive care unit (ICU) for 24 hours after his surgery. He will later be moved to a hospital room.

Musaddiq Malik further stated that decision of PM Sharif’s return to country will be made after consultation with his doctors, adding, “The PM, however, did not let his ailment become a hurdle in the way of duties”.

The spokesman also expressed gratitude to all those who prayed for the recovery of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Nawaz phones Modi

Meanwhile, PM Nawaz Sharif telephoned his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi just before being wheeled in for his heart surgery, said a spokesman for Indian Ministry of External Affairs, Vikas Swarup.

Modi wished speedy recovery to Nawaz, Swarup said on Twitter.

On Saturday, Indian Premier Narendra Modi said in his Twitter message: “My best wishes to PM Nawaz Sharif Sahab for his open heart surgery on Tuesday. And for his speedy recovery & good health.”