The country has been in political turmoil since the former international cricket star was booted from power in April last year, culminating in his being jailed for graft at the weekend following a months-long crackdown on his party.

Regarding the traffic situation on roads, an Islamabad police spokesman said that diversions have been placed on both sides of Ayub Chowk, NADRA Chowk, Serena Chowk, and Express Chowk and only Margalla Road is open for traffic to enter or exit Red Zone.

The United States and Pakistan have had a complex and often disappointing "love-hate" relationship since 1947 — one severely tested during the 20-year U.S.-led intervention in Afghanistan.

Sharif, leader of the centrist Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) is certain to be chosen ahead of the token candidacy of Khan loyalist Shah Mahmood Qureshi, the former foreign minister.

Fawad said the cases against Zardari and Sharif families should be expedited as it would be mockery of state if the looted money was not recovered from them.