Maryam Nawaz Addresses Health Rumors Amid European Visit

Amidst rumors of throat cancer, Punjab's Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz confirmed her ongoing but non-serious treatment, countering claims with a possible thyroid condition. Her European visit amidst public health concerns and viral incidents highlights a growing cultural and political divide in Pakistan.

Amid growing speculation regarding her health, Pakistan's Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz confirmed on Wednesday that her treatment is ongoing, dispelling cancer rumors. Speaking to press in London after a Swiss trip, Maryam assured reporters of her well-being.

Maryam, 51, refrained from detailing her health condition, stating only that her treatment is progressing. Before heading to Switzerland, she visited Sharif Medical Complex in Lahore for a gland-related issue, having undergone gland surgery last year.

The health scare evokes memories of her mother, Kulsoom Nawaz, who succumbed to throat cancer in 2018. Public concern intensified, but Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb attributed Maryam's issues to a thyroid problem, adding there was no mention of cancer. Criticism also arose over her and her father, former PM Nawaz Sharif's, European visit amid Punjab's smog crisis. A viral video showing the Nawaz family heckled by expatriates underscored a cultural rift, with Nawaz later criticizing the prevailing intolerance in political discourse.

(With inputs from agencies.)