Zubair Gull, a long-serving leader of the PML-N’s UK chapter, has been awarded the party’s ticket for the Senate seat left vacant after the passing of Senator Irfan Siddiqui. Gull has been associated with Nawaz Sharif and the PML-N leadership for more than three decades. During this long period, he stood by the party in some of its most difficult political phases. Party members often describe him as one of Nawaz Sharif’s closest supporters abroad. They say he refused offers from rival political groups, including repeated attempts to win him over to other parties. His persistence earned him a reputation for unwavering commitment.
In 2018, Zubair Gull even renounced his British nationality to contest a Senate seat in Pakistan. Though his attempt was unsuccessful at the time, the new ticket marks his return to national politics and signals that the party leadership values consistency over convenience. The Senate seat became vacant after Senator Irfan Siddiqui, a respected politician, writer, and former adviser, passed away in November after a brief illness. His death triggered the by-election process, which the Election Commission of Punjab has now formally scheduled.
According to a public notice issued by the Provincial Election Commissioner, nomination papers for the seat can be submitted on December 4 and 2025. The Returning Officer will oversee the entire process, including verification of documents and the publishing of candidate lists.
The initial list of candidates will be released on 6 December, followed by scrutiny of the papers on 8 December. Candidates whose papers are rejected will have the right to file appeals until 10 December, and these appeals will be decided by 12 December. After this, a revised list will be published on 13 December. Candidates may withdraw their names by 15 December.
The by-election will be held on 24 December 2025, from 9am to 4pm in the Punjab Assembly. Lawmakers will elect the new senator through a secret ballot. The timeline has been shared publicly to ensure transparency and smooth conduct of the poll.
For PML-N, the nomination of Zubair Gull sends a clear signal. At a time when the party is trying to stabilise its position in government and strengthen its overseas network, recognising an old loyalist shows the direction of the party’s thinking. It also underlines the leadership’s belief that long-term supporters deserve representation in national institutions.
Analysts say the move may help the party reconnect with overseas Pakistanis, who play an important role through fundraising and political support. As the by-election date approaches, the PML-N is expected to rely heavily on its majority in the Punjab Assembly, making Gull the likely winner.