Captain (retd) Muhammad Safdar, a senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and husband of Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz, has revealed that his wife usually takes the first step to resolve matters after the couple have an argument.
Speaking on journalist Azaz Syed’s digital programme Talk SHOCK, Safdar was asked who takes the initiative after a fight, to which he said it usually comes from “the other side”, referring to Maryam Nawaz.
Safdar said his 35-year marriage is based on mutual respect rather than political authority.
“There is no question of commanding authority; it is a relationship of respect and honour,” he said, describing their marriage as one built on “dignity and respect”.
Safdar and Maryam Nawaz have been married for 35 years and have three children and several grandchildren, according to his remarks on the programme.
He also explained why he does not hold a position in the Punjab cabinet, saying the decision was intentional.
“That is why I do not sit in the cabinet,” Safdar said. “It would not make sense — when the Chief Minister enters, everyone is expected to stand up, so why should I be there?”
Safdar said disagreements at home were generally minor and part of everyday family life, rather than reflecting political differences between the couple.
He cited his diet as an example, saying family members sometimes hide desserts from him because of concerns about his blood sugar.
“If there are desserts at home, they hide them, saying ‘Safdar will eat it and his HbA1c will get ruined.’ I tell them, ‘At least let me eat!’”
Asked whether his public comments lead to disagreements at home, Safdar said he had his own views and defended his right to express them.
“I have my own school of thought,” he said. “What wrong statement have I given? I only speak out against thieves. They also catch thieves, and I follow the same path.”
