The Lal Haveli is in the limelight again, and the evergreen Shaikh Rashid loves every minute of it.

The chief of the Awami Muslim League, who is campaigning for Rawalpindi’s NA-55 seat, is not just going door-to-door but is also addressing around 15 to 20 poll rallies a day. To try and bring over the youth to his side, he is banking on the PTI factor – something he mentions in every public speech.

“The people want change now and therefore my party and PTI are campaigning for the same purpose together,” he said.While the outcome of the elections is still in doubt, he is sure that they will take place. “No matter how bad the situation gets, elections will be held,” he said with his trademark confidence.

Another thing he is certain about is the Army’s continued role.“Army is a fact in this country,” he said in his aggressive style. “The army is now with democracy and the democratic set-up, and this is a positive development.”