LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Member of the Punjab Assembly Arshad Malik has suggested that former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s photograph should also be featured on the country’s Rs5,000 currency note alongside the image of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The proposal was made during a session of the Punjab Assembly, where the lawmaker praised Nawaz Sharif’s contributions to the country and argued that his services deserved national recognition.

Addressing the assembly, Arshad Malik stated that the Rs5,000 note should carry the images of both Quaid-e-Azam and Nawaz Sharif. He said that Nawaz Sharif played a significant role in the country’s development and economic progress.

“The Rs5,000 note should feature Nawaz Sharif’s picture alongside Quaid-e-Azam,” the PML-N legislator said during his speech.

The lawmaker further remarked that Nawaz Sharif was the leader who helped put Pakistan on the path of development through various infrastructure, economic, and public welfare projects during his time in office.

The statement quickly attracted attention due to the symbolic importance of Pakistan’s national currency. At present, all Pakistani banknotes issued by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) prominently feature the portrait of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of the nation.

Currency designs are generally determined by the State Bank of Pakistan in consultation with the federal government, and any major changes to banknotes typically require a formal approval process. No official proposal regarding the inclusion of Nawaz Sharif’s image on currency notes has been announced by the government or the central bank.

Political observers noted that the suggestion reflects the admiration some PML-N members have for their party leader and former prime minister. However, they also pointed out that such proposals often generate debate because national symbols, including currency notes, carry historical and constitutional significance.

Supporters of Nawaz Sharif argue that he played a key role in major infrastructure projects, energy initiatives, and economic reforms during his three terms as prime minister. Critics, on the other hand, maintain that decisions regarding national symbols should be approached with broad consensus and institutional consideration.

The remarks are expected to spark discussion among political circles, economists, and the public regarding the criteria used for honoring national figures on state symbols and currency.

For now, Arshad Malik’s comments remain a personal proposal made on the floor of the Punjab Assembly, and there has been no indication from relevant authorities that any change to the design of the Rs5,000 note is under consideration.

The statement nevertheless adds to the ongoing political discourse surrounding the legacy of Nawaz Sharif and his role in Pakistan’s political and economic history.