Four prominent Pakistani journalists, who have been known for their pro-Imran Khan views over the past couple of years, have opined that the prime minister may not return to power in the next general elections. 

"She [Maryam Nawaz] will become the next prime minister, in my opinion," journalist Sabir Shakir was quoted as saying by The News International.

"She can," agreed Chaudhry Ghulam Hussain, another veteran journalist who has been a severe critic of the PML-N in the past and has spoken highly of PM Imran Khan over the years.

Shakir went on, saying that whether Maryam becomes prime minister or not depends on the PML-N leader herself, adding that "a change in the circumstances" will also be necessary for her to win the office of the country's next chief executive.

Shakir said there will be a "break" in the prime minister's term, adding that he will lose the next elections. He opined that the premier will then go on to emerge as a stronger candidate in the general elections after 2023, and will become prime minister for the second time then.

"This is his first innings, he is learning how to play," said Shakir.

"Hence, he will lose first and will then emerge again stronger the next time,” he was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

Arif Hameed Bhatti, was quoted as saying by the newspaper that this was PM Imran Khan’s “first and last innings” as the prime minister of the country, adding that Maryam Nawaz can become the country’s next premier and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif can get elected to office for a record fourth time.

However, he said it will not happen as a result of the people’s votes, leaving much to think about.