As military tightens grip, Pakistan's ex-PM Nawaz Sharif heads to London

Pakistan's deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday left for London along with his daughter to see his ailing wife amid speculations that he might not return because of a likely conviction in three corruption cases against him.

As Sharif's family spokesman did not reveal his return schedule, analysts here believe that it is likely that Sharif will skip his appearance before a combined investigation team of the National Accountability Bureau in Lahore on April 21.

NAB has summoned Sharif for allegedly misusing his authority for illegal construction of a road leading to his Jati Umra, Raiwind residence.

Sharif who was disqualified by the Supreme Court is due to appear in the accountability court on April 23 in a corruption case. But it is likely that he may skip it.

"Begum Kulsoom Nawaz has been under treatment in a hospital in London as her condition is serious," the family spokesperson said, adding that because of her serious condition Sharif and his daughter have to be with her.