Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Friday claimed that his party PML-N has emerged as the single largest party in the national elections. Nawaz Sharif has said that he is reaching out to PPP's Asif Ali Zardari, JUI-F’s Fazlur Rehman and MQM-P’s Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui for the formation of a coalition government.

Pakistan:PTI-backed Independents leading in polls, results of over 90% of seats announced | WION

Pakistan elections: Hours long delay in results cause chaos & confusion

Anti-terrorism court grants bail to Imran Khan in all 12 cases. Khan got big relief in May 9 violence cases. Imran Khan has claimed victory in the Parliamentary Elections. He addressed Pakistan via AI-generated video. However, There is no clear mandate in #PakistanElection. Imran Khan has claimed victory, Nawaz Sharif has called for a coalition govt. What happens next? Who will be Pakistan's next Prime Minister?

Pakistan: Ex-PM Imran Khan gets bail in 12 cases related to May 9 violence

<p>An anti-terrorism court on Saturday (Feb 10) granted bail to former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in 12 cases involving the attacks on military installations on May 9 last year. Along with Khan, the court also granted relief to former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in the same 12 cases. The development comes as Imran-backed independent candidates won the most number of seats, nearly 100, in the general elections held on February 8. However, the party of former PM Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan Muslim League (N), emerged as the single largest party.</p>

<h2><strong>Court’s observation</strong></h2>

<p>The court of ATC Judge Malik Ejaz Asif found that there was no justification to keep Khan, 71, under arrest as all other accused in May 9 cases were released on bail.</p>

<p>Earlier, Khan and Qureshi were indicted in the 12 cases on February 6. Imran Khan is said to have told the judge that he was illegally arrested on May 9 from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) premises.</p>

<p>May 9 of 2023 saw massive spontaneous protests erupt across Pakistan, which targeted military installations following the arrest of Imran Khan in an alleged corruption case. Over 20 military installations and state buildings, including the Army headquarters in Rawalpindi, were damaged in the violence.</p>

<p>The Pakistani Army alleged Imran and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) incited those attacks.</p>

<h2><strong>Will Imran Khan come out of jail?</strong></h2>

<p>It must be noted that Khan will not get out of jail even after receiving bail in the 12 cases relating to the May 9 violence. It is because the former Pakistani PM is already serving sentences in the cipher case and one alleged corruption case.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw29aKnO13OpCQX-e7e2dQ15" data-ved="2ahUKEwi0qMTizaCEAxVB8DgGHXbtAFEQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-elections-2024-live-poll-body-starts-announcing-national-assembly-results-as-counting-underway-688441" jsname="YKoRaf">Pakistan polls updates February 9, 2024: As it happened</a></strong></p>

<p>Khan was ousted from power through a no-confidence motion in April 2022, following which more than 150 cases were registered against him.</p>

<h2><strong>Latest from Pakistan elections 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Election Commission of Pakistan issued election results for more than 252 seats, where PTI-backed independents emerged victorious on nearly 100 seats.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan:PTI-backed Independents leading in polls, results of over 90% of seats announced</strong></p>

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<p>The group was followed by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) with 71 seats, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) with 53, Muttahida Qaumi Movement with 17 and other seats going to smaller parties.</p>

<p>As per reports in Pakistani media, the PPP and PLM-N are discussing a power-sharing agreement and are highly likely to form a coalition government “to achieve political and economic stability" in the country.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An anti-terrorism court on Saturday (Feb 10) granted bail to former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in 12 cases involving the attacks on military installations on May 9 last year.

An anti-terrorism court on Saturday (Feb 10) granted bail to former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in 12 cases involving the attacks on military installations on May 9 last year. Along with Khan, the court also granted relief to former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in the same 12 cases. The development comes as Imran-backed independent candidates won the most number of seats, nearly 100, in the general elections held on February 8. However, the party of former PM Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan Muslim League (N), emerged as the single largest party. Court’s observation The court of ATC Judge Malik Ejaz Asif found that there was no justification to keep Khan, 71, under arrest as all other accused in May 9 cases were released on bail. Earlier, Khan and Qureshi were indicted in the 12 cases on February 6. Imran Khan is said to have told the judge that he was illegally arrested on May 9 from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) premises. May 9 of 2023 saw massive spontaneous protests erupt across Pakistan, which targeted military installations following the arrest of Imran Khan in an alleged corruption case. Over 20 military installations and state buildings, including the Army headquarters in Rawalpindi, were damaged in the violence. The Pakistani Army alleged Imran and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) incited those attacks. Will Imran Khan come out of jail? It must be noted that Khan will not get out of jail even after receiving bail in the 12 cases relating to the May 9 violence. It is because the former Pakistani PM is already serving sentences in the cipher case and one alleged corruption case. Also read: Pakistan polls updates February 9, 2024: As it happened Khan was ousted from power through a no-confidence motion in April 2022, following which more than 150 cases were registered against him. Latest from Pakistan elections 2024 Meanwhile, the Election Commission of Pakistan issued election results for more than 252 seats, where PTI-backed independents emerged victorious on nearly 100 seats. Watch: Pakistan:PTI-backed Independents leading in polls, results of over 90% of seats announced × The group was followed by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) with 71 seats, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) with 53, Muttahida Qaumi Movement with 17 and other seats going to smaller parties. As per reports in Pakistani media, the PPP and PLM-N are discussing a power-sharing agreement and are highly likely to form a coalition government “to achieve political and economic stability" in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Ex-PM Imran Khan gets bail in 12 cases related to May 9 violence, to remain in jail

Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran Khan addresses Pakistan via AI-generated video

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<p>Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have agreed to form the government at the Centre in Punjab, Geo News reported on Saturday (Feb 10). As per the report, PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif met Bhutto and former president Asif Ali Zardari, inviting them to work together for Pakistan.</p>

<p>The meeting happened at the residence of Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi. Citing sources, the report said that Shehbaz discussed the future government formation with Zardari and also conveyed PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif’s message. He asked the two PPP leaders to sit with the PML-N leadership for political and economic stability in Pakistan, the report added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The general elections in Pakistan took place on Thursday and the results were announced after much delay. The results of 250 of the total 265 seats have been officially announced.</p>

<p>Independent candidates who supported jailed former prime minister Imran Khan have won 99 seats, the PML-N has won 71 seats and the PPP has won 53 seats. The rest were won by small parties and other independents.</p>

<h2><strong>Sharif hints at improving ties with India</strong></h2>

<p>Nawaz Sharif said on Friday&nbsp;that his government would try to improve relations with neighbouring countries. In the recently concluded general elections, the PML-N technically emerged as the single-largest party in the National Assembly despite the fact that the number of independent candidates supporting Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was higher than any other political party.</p>

<p>"We would improve ties with the world and with our neighbours and try to solve all issues with them," said Sharif, the former three-time prime minister, as reported by news agency PTI. Sharif asked his supporters if they agreed with this remark and they backed him.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-nawaz-sharif-calls-upon-all-parties-to-sit-down-for-coalition-688780">Pakistan Elections 2024: Nawaz Sharif calls upon 'all parties' to 'sit down' for coalition</a></strong></p>

<p>Sharif did not directly mention India, but the word "neighbours" has significance as in his previous tenures as PM, he has tried to mend ties with India.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sharif, Imran Khan claim victory in polls</strong></h2>

<p>Both Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan claimed victory in Thursday's general elections.</p>

<p>“Praise be to Allah, Muslim League-N is the largest single party in the country today after the elections. I understand that this is our duty to bring this country out of the whirlpool,” Sharif told his supporters on Friday, adding he would talk to other groups to form a coalition government as the PML-N had failed to win a clear majority on its own.</p>

<p>“Whoever has got the mandate, whether independents or parties, we respect the mandate they have got. We respect that from the bottom of our heart,” Sharif said and pointed out that it was necessary to sit down and form a government and take Pakistan out of the whirlpool.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Imran Khan, who is in jail and has been facing numerous cases since he was ousted as PM in April 2022, claimed victory in the elections in an audio-visual message created using artificial intelligence.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Election Result 2024: Former PM Nawaz Sharif wins from Lahore</strong></p>

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<p>In the message that was shared on X, Khan rejected Sharif's victory claim and called on his supporters to celebrate a win that was achieved despite what he calls a crackdown on his party PTI.</p>

<h2><strong>'London plan has failed'</strong></h2>

<p>During his victory speech, Imran Khan also said that the London Plan of Nawaz Sharif failed with the massive turnout of voters.&nbsp; Addressing the citizens, Khan said, "By turning out in huge numbers and exercising your democratic right of franchise, you have laid the foundation for the restoration of the freedom to exercise citizens' rights. I congratulate you all on helping us win the elections handsomely."</p>

<p>"Nawaz Sharif is a leader of low intelligence who gave a victory speech despite his party trailing in 30 seats," he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir congratulated the country on the successful conduct of the elections. "Free and unhindered participation by Pakistani people to exercise their right of vote demonstrated their commitment to democracy and the rule of law as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan," a statement read.</p>

<p>"The constructive role played by national media, civil society, members of civil administration, and judiciary enabled the successful conduct of the largest electoral exercise in national history. Pakistan’s diverse polity and pluralism will be well-represented by a unified government of all democratic forces imbibed with national purpose," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have agreed to form the government at the Centre in Punjab, Geo News reported on Saturday (Feb 10).

Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have agreed to form the government at the Centre in Punjab, Geo News reported on Saturday (Feb 10). As per the report, PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif met Bhutto and former president Asif Ali Zardari, inviting them to work together for Pakistan. The meeting happened at the residence of Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi. Citing sources, the report said that Shehbaz discussed the future government formation with Zardari and also conveyed PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif’s message. He asked the two PPP leaders to sit with the PML-N leadership for political and economic stability in Pakistan, the report added. The general elections in Pakistan took place on Thursday and the results were announced after much delay. The results of 250 of the total 265 seats have been officially announced. Independent candidates who supported jailed former prime minister Imran Khan have won 99 seats, the PML-N has won 71 seats and the PPP has won 53 seats. The rest were won by small parties and other independents. Sharif hints at improving ties with India Nawaz Sharif said on Friday that his government would try to improve relations with neighbouring countries. In the recently concluded general elections, the PML-N technically emerged as the single-largest party in the National Assembly despite the fact that the number of independent candidates supporting Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was higher than any other political party. "We would improve ties with the world and with our neighbours and try to solve all issues with them," said Sharif, the former three-time prime minister, as reported by news agency PTI. Sharif asked his supporters if they agreed with this remark and they backed him. Also read | Pakistan Elections 2024: Nawaz Sharif calls upon 'all parties' to 'sit down' for coalition Sharif did not directly mention India, but the word "neighbours" has significance as in his previous tenures as PM, he has tried to mend ties with India. Sharif, Imran Khan claim victory in polls Both Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan claimed victory in Thursday's general elections. “Praise be to Allah, Muslim League-N is the largest single party in the country today after the elections. I understand that this is our duty to bring this country out of the whirlpool,” Sharif told his supporters on Friday, adding he would talk to other groups to form a coalition government as the PML-N had failed to win a clear majority on its own. “Whoever has got the mandate, whether independents or parties, we respect the mandate they have got. We respect that from the bottom of our heart,” Sharif said and pointed out that it was necessary to sit down and form a government and take Pakistan out of the whirlpool. Meanwhile, Imran Khan, who is in jail and has been facing numerous cases since he was ousted as PM in April 2022, claimed victory in the elections in an audio-visual message created using artificial intelligence. Also watch | Pakistan Election Result 2024: Former PM Nawaz Sharif wins from Lahore × In the message that was shared on X, Khan rejected Sharif's victory claim and called on his supporters to celebrate a win that was achieved despite what he calls a crackdown on his party PTI. 'London plan has failed' During his victory speech, Imran Khan also said that the London Plan of Nawaz Sharif failed with the massive turnout of voters. Addressing the citizens, Khan said, "By turning out in huge numbers and exercising your democratic right of franchise, you have laid the foundation for the restoration of the freedom to exercise citizens' rights. I congratulate you all on helping us win the elections handsomely." "Nawaz Sharif is a leader of low intelligence who gave a victory speech despite his party trailing in 30 seats," he added. Meanwhile, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir congratulated the country on the successful conduct of the elections. "Free and unhindered participation by Pakistani people to exercise their right of vote demonstrated their commitment to democracy and the rule of law as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan," a statement read. "The constructive role played by national media, civil society, members of civil administration, and judiciary enabled the successful conduct of the largest electoral exercise in national history. Pakistan’s diverse polity and pluralism will be well-represented by a unified government of all democratic forces imbibed with national purpose," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan elections: PML-N, PPP agree to form coalition govt at Centre, Punjab, says report

Pakistan elections: Pakistan polls delivers a triangular verdict

Pakistan: Nawaz Sharif calls on rival groups to form a coalition government

Pakistan elections: Results of over 90% seats announced

<p>Former Pakistani Prime Minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif on Friday (Feb 9) announced that he intends to form a united government with the help of other major parties such as Pakistan Peoples Party, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) and Karachi-based Muttahida Qaumi Movement (Pakistan) after no party managed to achieve an absolute majority in Islamabad's National Assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The three-time former prime minister said that he has directed his&nbsp;younger sibling Shehbaz to reach out to the PPP’s Asif Ali Zardari, JUI-F’s Fazlur Rehman and MQM-P’s Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui for the formation of a coalition government.</p>

<p>"Shehbaz Sharif and Ishaq Dar will hold meetings today," he said. He also extended a potential olive branch of peace to Pakistan's neighbours&nbsp;— without naming any of them&nbsp;—&nbsp;and said that he wants good ties with all of Pakistan's neighbours.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Election Result 2024: All parties to sit together and form a government, says Nawaz Sharif</strong></p>

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<p>At the time of filing this report,&nbsp;of the 224 National Assembly results announced, the Independent candidates are leading with 92 seats, followed by 63 seats of PMLN, 50 seats of PPP, 11 for MQM, 2 for IPP, 2 for JUI, 3 for PMLQ, while 1 seat PNAP.</p>

<p>Results of 41 seats are awaited.</p>

<p>Sharif then hinted at the formation of a 'unity government', and invited the independent candidates to 'unite for the good of nation'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cast-from-the-past-how-pakistans-bat-less-election-in-2024-followed-zia-ul-haqs-dictatorship-script-688707">Cast From The Past: How Pakistan's bat-less election in 2024 followed Zia-ul-Haq's dictatorship script</a></strong></p>

<p>He asserted that it is the collective responsibility of all parties to join forces and navigate Pakistan out of its current crisis. "Not just my or Ishaq Dar's responsibility... It is everyone's Pakistan. If we all work together, only then will Pakistan get out of this crisis," he emphasised.</p>

<p>Expressing the need for a stable Pakistan, Nawaz Sharif stated, "Pakistan needed at least 10 years of stability. Those who are in the mood for confrontation, I want to tell them we don't want any fight... Pakistan cannot afford it. We all must sit together and sort issues out and take Pakistan to the 21st century, but due to our mistake, we could not do that earlier."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Election Result 2024: Nawaz Sharif seeks reaching out to PPP, JUI-F, MQM-P for coalition</strong></p>

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<p>Notably, Imran Khan was disqualified from contesting the elections due to criminal convictions. The electoral symbol of the PTI was also taken away by the ECP in a ruling later backed by the Pakistan apex court. As a result, the PTI leaders and supporters contested as independent candidates, Pakistan's Dawn newspaper reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Pakistani Prime Minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif on Friday (Feb 9) announced that he intends to form a united government with the help of other major parties such as Pakistan Peoples Party, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) and Karachi-based Muttahida Qaumi Movement (Pakistan) after no party managed to achieve an absolute majority in Islamabad's National Assembly.

Former Pakistani Prime Minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif on Friday (Feb 9) announced that he intends to form a united government with the help of other major parties such as Pakistan Peoples Party, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) and Karachi-based Muttahida Qaumi Movement (Pakistan) after no party managed to achieve an absolute majority in Islamabad's National Assembly. The three-time former prime minister said that he has directed his younger sibling Shehbaz to reach out to the PPP’s Asif Ali Zardari, JUI-F’s Fazlur Rehman and MQM-P’s Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui for the formation of a coalition government. "Shehbaz Sharif and Ishaq Dar will hold meetings today," he said. He also extended a potential olive branch of peace to Pakistan's neighbours — without naming any of them — and said that he wants good ties with all of Pakistan's neighbours. Also watch | Pakistan Election Result 2024: All parties to sit together and form a government, says Nawaz Sharif × At the time of filing this report, of the 224 National Assembly results announced, the Independent candidates are leading with 92 seats, followed by 63 seats of PMLN, 50 seats of PPP, 11 for MQM, 2 for IPP, 2 for JUI, 3 for PMLQ, while 1 seat PNAP. Results of 41 seats are awaited. Sharif then hinted at the formation of a 'unity government', and invited the independent candidates to 'unite for the good of nation'. Also read | Cast From The Past: How Pakistan's bat-less election in 2024 followed Zia-ul-Haq's dictatorship script He asserted that it is the collective responsibility of all parties to join forces and navigate Pakistan out of its current crisis. "Not just my or Ishaq Dar's responsibility... It is everyone's Pakistan. If we all work together, only then will Pakistan get out of this crisis," he emphasised. Expressing the need for a stable Pakistan, Nawaz Sharif stated, "Pakistan needed at least 10 years of stability. Those who are in the mood for confrontation, I want to tell them we don't want any fight... Pakistan cannot afford it. We all must sit together and sort issues out and take Pakistan to the 21st century, but due to our mistake, we could not do that earlier." Also watch | Pakistan Election Result 2024: Nawaz Sharif seeks reaching out to PPP, JUI-F, MQM-P for coalition × Notably, Imran Khan was disqualified from contesting the elections due to criminal convictions. The electoral symbol of the PTI was also taken away by the ECP in a ruling later backed by the Pakistan apex court. As a result, the PTI leaders and supporters contested as independent candidates, Pakistan's Dawn newspaper reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Elections 2024: Nawaz Sharif calls upon 'all parties' to 'sit down' for coalition

Counting of votes began in Pakistan after the polling, marred by violence and terror attacks, ended on Thursday evening. According to Interior Ministry, the internet services have been partially restored in parts of the country. Amid the unrest and violence in many constituencies, the government had suspended mobile and internet services across the nation.

Pakistan elections vote count: Nine killed across Pakistan in separate attack on voting day

<p>Imran Khan, former prime minister of Pakistan and cricketer-turned-politician may be in jail but halfway into the counting of votes&nbsp;in Pakistan national elections, candidates loyal to his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party have taken lead. PTI has won around 49 seats so far. Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) is leading on 42 and Pakistan People's Party (PPP) has bagged 34, as reported by AFP.</p>

<p>Imran Khan is&nbsp;in jail after being convicted of treason, graft and having an un-Islamic marriage. He is also facing about 200 cases. But Khan and his supporters say that cases against him are politically motivated.</p>

<p>Authorities launched sweeping crackdown on PTI in last few months and the party was barred from contesting elections and&nbsp;holding rallies. As PTI was taken off ballot, the candidates were forced to contest elections as independents.</p>

<p>In Pakistan, independent candidates have to declare their support to party within 72 hours of their victory. This often leads to 'horse-trading' and deal-making.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan elections 2024: PTI-backed candidates allege tampering of poll results</strong></p>

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<p>As reported by AFP most of PTI loyalists have bagged seats in Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa region. Results from Pakistani Punjab province weren't fully declared. It is the most populous province and wields great political power in the country. Punjab has traditionally been a stronghold of the Sharif family.</p>

<p>"...even if PTI is unable to form a government, the elections show there are limits to political engineering," said Bilal Gilani, executive director of polling group Gallup Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It shows that the military does not always get their way -- that is the silver lining,"&nbsp;Gilani was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-counts-votes-to-decide-leader-of-crisis-hit-nation-688413">Pakistan counts votes to decide leader of crisis-hit nation</a></strong></p>

<p>The elections, held on Thursday (February 8) were hit by violence. As per the tally released by Pakistan's interior ministry, there were 61 attacks across the country, most of them were carried out in regions sharing border with Afghanistan.</p>

<p>There were at least 16 deaths, which included 10 security personnel. Fifty four people were also wounded in attacks across the country.</p>

<h2><strong>Elections 'rigged'</strong></h2>

<p>The delay in vote counting is being perceived by some voters as a sign of the elections being rigged.</p>

<p>"The delaying tactics speak loudly of the results being rigged and there is no other reason behind the delay," Nisar Ahmed (45) a shop owner told AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-nawaz-sharifs-seat-results-rigged-former-pm-accused-of-stealing-public-mandate-688675">Pakistan Elections 2024: Nawaz Sharif's seat results rigged? Former PM accused of 'stealing public mandate'</a></strong></p>

<p>In the run-up to the elections, it was expected that PML(N) would bag most seats, but initial results indicate that PML(N) and PPP, both dynastic parties are involved in a tough fight.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Imran Khan, former prime minister of Pakistan and cricketer-turned-politician may be in jail but halfway into the counting of votes in Pakistan national elections, candidates loyal to his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party have taken lead.

Imran Khan, former prime minister of Pakistan and cricketer-turned-politician may be in jail but halfway into the counting of votes in Pakistan national elections, candidates loyal to his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party have taken lead. PTI has won around 49 seats so far. Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) is leading on 42 and Pakistan People's Party (PPP) has bagged 34, as reported by AFP. Imran Khan is in jail after being convicted of treason, graft and having an un-Islamic marriage. He is also facing about 200 cases. But Khan and his supporters say that cases against him are politically motivated. Authorities launched sweeping crackdown on PTI in last few months and the party was barred from contesting elections and holding rallies. As PTI was taken off ballot, the candidates were forced to contest elections as independents. In Pakistan, independent candidates have to declare their support to party within 72 hours of their victory. This often leads to 'horse-trading' and deal-making. Watch | Pakistan elections 2024: PTI-backed candidates allege tampering of poll results × As reported by AFP most of PTI loyalists have bagged seats in Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa region. Results from Pakistani Punjab province weren't fully declared. It is the most populous province and wields great political power in the country. Punjab has traditionally been a stronghold of the Sharif family. "...even if PTI is unable to form a government, the elections show there are limits to political engineering," said Bilal Gilani, executive director of polling group Gallup Pakistan. "It shows that the military does not always get their way -- that is the silver lining," Gilani was quoted as saying by AFP. Also Read | Pakistan counts votes to decide leader of crisis-hit nation The elections, held on Thursday (February 8) were hit by violence. As per the tally released by Pakistan's interior ministry, there were 61 attacks across the country, most of them were carried out in regions sharing border with Afghanistan. There were at least 16 deaths, which included 10 security personnel. Fifty four people were also wounded in attacks across the country. Elections 'rigged' The delay in vote counting is being perceived by some voters as a sign of the elections being rigged. "The delaying tactics speak loudly of the results being rigged and there is no other reason behind the delay," Nisar Ahmed (45) a shop owner told AFP. Also Read | Pakistan Elections 2024: Nawaz Sharif's seat results rigged? Former PM accused of 'stealing public mandate' In the run-up to the elections, it was expected that PML(N) would bag most seats, but initial results indicate that PML(N) and PPP, both dynastic parties are involved in a tough fight. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan elections: Imran Khan's allies take lead at half-way point of counting

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<p>The results of the 2024 general elections in Pakistan started trickling in on Friday (Feb 9) after much delay. In a post on X, the country's interior ministry said that a "lack of communication" led to the late processing of results.</p>

<p>The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced the results of 106 out of the 265 contested seats in the national assembly by around mid-day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report by Geo News, independent candidates, who were supporting&nbsp;jailed former prime minister Imran Khan won 47 seats, followed by&nbsp;Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) which won 24 seats, and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) had won 18 seats. The rest of the seats have been won by smaller parties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nawaz Sharif won in his constituency- the NA-130- by over 171,000 votes.&nbsp;Mainstream parties in the country including Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the PPP alleged rigging in the elections.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>With the results of the rest of the seats remaining, here are top updates:</strong></h3>

<p><strong>&gt;&nbsp;</strong>Nawaz Sharif has won in the NA-130 constituency while his younger brother and former PM Shehbaz Sharif has won the PP-158 seat in Lahore with 38,642 votes, preliminary results from ECP showed. Shehbaz Sharif also emerged victorious in the NA-123 seat in Lahore with 63,953 votes.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;Imran Khan's PTI was barred from taking part in Thursday's election, and hence his supporters contested as independent candidates. Gohar Ali Khan, the PTI's current chairperson, has won the NA-10 constituency in Buner with 110,023 votes, the ECP said.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-elections-2024-live-poll-body-starts-announcing-national-assembly-results-as-counting-underway-688441">Click here to follow all updates on the results of the Pakistan general elections</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;Mainstream political parties in Pakistan apart from the PML-N have alleged rigging in the elections. In Karachi, the PPP claimed that ballot papers were snatched from electoral staff in the PS-105 constituency, Dawn reported. In Punjab, PTI-backed candidate for Sialkot Rehana Dar said the returning officer refused to give her Form 45.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday expressed concerns about the violence on election day and the temporary suspension of mobile communications services in the South Asian country.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;UN Secretary-General Antonio Gueterres expressed concern about the election violence. "As Pakistan awaits the results of the elections, the secretary-general encourages all political leaders and society segments to maintain a calm atmosphere, as well as refrain from the use of violence and any actions that could increase tensions," UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/message-of-preace-to-india-former-pakistan-pm-nawaz-sharif-releases-party-manifesto-684253">Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif's party manifesto talks of ‘message of peace’ for India, but conditions apply</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;The PTI earlier claimed that it would form governments both at the centre and in provinces. In a statement issued late Thursday, PTI chief organiser Omar Ayub Khan and PTI Parliamentary Leader in Senate Barrister Ali Zafar said that preliminary results were very encouraging for their party, showing it as convincingly leading on an overwhelming number of seats across the country.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;Despite heightened security in the run-up to the election and also the election day, incidents of violence were reported in Pakistan. Nine people, including two children, were killed on Thursday in bomb blasts, grenade attacks and shootings.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan elections 2024: Rivals PTI &amp; PML-N claim victory, puts up a tough fight</strong></p>

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<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;At least another 26 were killed on Wednesday in two explosions near electoral candidates' offices in the southwestern province of Balochistan. Islamic State later claimed responsibility for these attacks.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;As the full election results are awaited, an analyst told the news agency Reuters that no party would have a majority and a coalition government is expected. "So we are looking at what everybody has anticipated that is a coalition government, which would probably be unstable, weak," Marvin Weinbaum, the director of Afghanistan and Pakistan Studies at the Middle East Institute, said.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong>&nbsp;"If it does, the results do come in, and it does look like the independents are the majority, the big loser won't necessarily be the PML-N (Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz), it will be the army. Because the army really has staked its reputation on its ability to deliver this vote, now it hasn’t done that openly, but that is really what is involved here,” Weinbaum said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The results of the 2024 general elections in Pakistan started trickling in on Friday (Feb 9) after much delay. In a post on X, the country's interior ministry said that a "lack of communication" led to the late processing of results.

The results of the 2024 general elections in Pakistan started trickling in on Friday (Feb 9) after much delay. In a post on X, the country's interior ministry said that a "lack of communication" led to the late processing of results. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced the results of 106 out of the 265 contested seats in the national assembly by around mid-day. According to a report by Geo News, independent candidates, who were supporting jailed former prime minister Imran Khan won 47 seats, followed by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) which won 24 seats, and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) had won 18 seats. The rest of the seats have been won by smaller parties. Nawaz Sharif won in his constituency- the NA-130- by over 171,000 votes. Mainstream parties in the country including Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the PPP alleged rigging in the elections. With the results of the rest of the seats remaining, here are top updates: > Nawaz Sharif has won in the NA-130 constituency while his younger brother and former PM Shehbaz Sharif has won the PP-158 seat in Lahore with 38,642 votes, preliminary results from ECP showed. Shehbaz Sharif also emerged victorious in the NA-123 seat in Lahore with 63,953 votes. > Imran Khan's PTI was barred from taking part in Thursday's election, and hence his supporters contested as independent candidates. Gohar Ali Khan, the PTI's current chairperson, has won the NA-10 constituency in Buner with 110,023 votes, the ECP said. Click here to follow all updates on the results of the Pakistan general elections > Mainstream political parties in Pakistan apart from the PML-N have alleged rigging in the elections. In Karachi, the PPP claimed that ballot papers were snatched from electoral staff in the PS-105 constituency, Dawn reported. In Punjab, PTI-backed candidate for Sialkot Rehana Dar said the returning officer refused to give her Form 45. > United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday expressed concerns about the violence on election day and the temporary suspension of mobile communications services in the South Asian country. > UN Secretary-General Antonio Gueterres expressed concern about the election violence. "As Pakistan awaits the results of the elections, the secretary-general encourages all political leaders and society segments to maintain a calm atmosphere, as well as refrain from the use of violence and any actions that could increase tensions," UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said. Also read | Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif's party manifesto talks of ‘message of peace’ for India, but conditions apply > The PTI earlier claimed that it would form governments both at the centre and in provinces. In a statement issued late Thursday, PTI chief organiser Omar Ayub Khan and PTI Parliamentary Leader in Senate Barrister Ali Zafar said that preliminary results were very encouraging for their party, showing it as convincingly leading on an overwhelming number of seats across the country. > Despite heightened security in the run-up to the election and also the election day, incidents of violence were reported in Pakistan. Nine people, including two children, were killed on Thursday in bomb blasts, grenade attacks and shootings. Also watch | Pakistan elections 2024: Rivals PTI & PML-N claim victory, puts up a tough fight × > At least another 26 were killed on Wednesday in two explosions near electoral candidates' offices in the southwestern province of Balochistan. Islamic State later claimed responsibility for these attacks. > As the full election results are awaited, an analyst told the news agency Reuters that no party would have a majority and a coalition government is expected. "So we are looking at what everybody has anticipated that is a coalition government, which would probably be unstable, weak," Marvin Weinbaum, the director of Afghanistan and Pakistan Studies at the Middle East Institute, said. > "If it does, the results do come in, and it does look like the independents are the majority, the big loser won't necessarily be the PML-N (Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz), it will be the army. Because the army really has staked its reputation on its ability to deliver this vote, now it hasn’t done that openly, but that is really what is involved here,” Weinbaum said. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan elections 2024 top updates: Results trickle in after unusual delay, parties allege rigging

Millions of Pakistanis voted on Thursday in an election marred by violence that has killed dozens, allegations of pre-poll rigging, and the jailing of the country's most popular politician, Imran Khan. Watch in the report for more details!

Pakistan elections 2024: PTI-backed candidates allege tampering of poll results

<p>Pakistan on Thursday (Feb 8) suspended entire country's mobile phone service on election day, citing the "recent surge in terrorist activities". The move has been widely slammed as "beginning of rigging" of the elections with both Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leaders coming out to slam the suspension of mobile internet services.</p>

<p>Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) blasted the suspension of mobile phone services, including the Internet, and urged people to remove personal WiFi passwords so that people can access the Internet amid ongoing polling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Pakistanis, the illegitimate, fascist regime has blocked cell phone services across Pakistan on polling day," former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party wrote on X.</p>

<p>"You are all requested to counter this cowardly act by removing passwords from your personal WiFi accounts, so anyone in the vicinity can have access to internet on this extremely important day," it urged the people.</p>

<p>While sharing a news piece from&nbsp;<em>Dawn&nbsp;</em>newspaper&nbsp;related to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority's pre-poll assurance that there are no orders to block the internet, the PTI said that the&nbsp;"flip-flop on internet services during election day is an infuriating betrayal."</p>

<p>"Shutting down phone service is a deliberate suppression of citizens' rights and a mockery of democracy," it added.</p>

<p>Not just PTI but the Pakistan People's Party, which also constituted the People's Democratic Movement (PDM) that succeeded Imran Khan's ousted administration in April 2022, also slammed the suspension of mobile phone services.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran Khan casts his vote from Adiala jail, wife Bushra misses out</strong></p>

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<p>Former PPP senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar described shutting down of mobile services as the "beginning of rigging" on election day.</p>

<h2><strong>What does suspension of mobile services mean for voting?</strong></h2>

<p>The move violates multiple high court rulings since 2018. Security concerns were greater in 2018 and 2013 but no such move was made back then.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It’s clear, based on the steps they took as soon as the polls opened, that the powers that be remain concerned about the PTI’s possible electoral impact. Especially its turnout potential. The party has been badly weakened and hollowed out, and yet it still has them worried," Michael Kugelman,&nbsp;South Asia Institute Director of The Wilson Centre wrote on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-will-imran-khan-bowl-out-army-from-prison-687168">Pakistan Elections 2024: Will Imran Khan bowl out army from prison?</a></strong></p>

<p>Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is widely expected to win the elections as the entire electioneering appears to be engineered to favour his return to power.&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan on Thursday (Feb 8) suspended entire country's mobile phone service on election day, citing the "recent surge in terrorist activities". The move has been widely slammed as "beginning of rigging" of the elections with both Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leaders coming out to slam the suspension of mobile internet services.

Pakistan on Thursday (Feb 8) suspended entire country's mobile phone service on election day, citing the "recent surge in terrorist activities". The move has been widely slammed as "beginning of rigging" of the elections with both Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leaders coming out to slam the suspension of mobile internet services. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) blasted the suspension of mobile phone services, including the Internet, and urged people to remove personal WiFi passwords so that people can access the Internet amid ongoing polling. "Pakistanis, the illegitimate, fascist regime has blocked cell phone services across Pakistan on polling day," former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party wrote on X. "You are all requested to counter this cowardly act by removing passwords from your personal WiFi accounts, so anyone in the vicinity can have access to internet on this extremely important day," it urged the people. While sharing a news piece from Dawn newspaper related to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority's pre-poll assurance that there are no orders to block the internet, the PTI said that the "flip-flop on internet services during election day is an infuriating betrayal." "Shutting down phone service is a deliberate suppression of citizens' rights and a mockery of democracy," it added. Not just PTI but the Pakistan People's Party, which also constituted the People's Democratic Movement (PDM) that succeeded Imran Khan's ousted administration in April 2022, also slammed the suspension of mobile phone services. Also watch | Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran Khan casts his vote from Adiala jail, wife Bushra misses out × Former PPP senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar described shutting down of mobile services as the "beginning of rigging" on election day. What does suspension of mobile services mean for voting? The move violates multiple high court rulings since 2018. Security concerns were greater in 2018 and 2013 but no such move was made back then. "It’s clear, based on the steps they took as soon as the polls opened, that the powers that be remain concerned about the PTI’s possible electoral impact. Especially its turnout potential. The party has been badly weakened and hollowed out, and yet it still has them worried," Michael Kugelman, South Asia Institute Director of The Wilson Centre wrote on X. Also read | Pakistan Elections 2024: Will Imran Khan bowl out army from prison? Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is widely expected to win the elections as the entire electioneering appears to be engineered to favour his return to power.

Pakistan Elections 2024: Digital darkness blinds voting day with Sharif tipped to win

<p>Pakistan is all set for a general election on Thursday (Feb 8), just hours after deadly blasts rocked the troubled nation, killing nearly 30 people and injuring dozens. The shocking explosions led to a tense situation across the nation, forcing authorities to deploy more than half a million security officers to maintain law and order on the polling day. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The South Asian nation has been marred by several factors including, economic crisis, political instability, and a rise in terrorism. These elements pose unprecedented challenges for the nation, making this general election consequential as it is expected to pave the way for the country's future.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Blasts on eve of Pakistan election</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The world turned its attention towards the Pakistan election, and the blasts grabbed headlines, leaving behind discussions on candidates and agenda for the nation. In the run-up to the vote, at least two candidates were shot dead and dozens more were targeted in attacks amid security incidents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jan Achakzai, caretaker information minister for Balochistan province, said: "The aim of today's blasts was to sabotage the election. Despite today's blasts, the election will take place tomorrow. People of Balochistan will come out tomorrow without any fear."&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, there has been no immediate claim of responsibility for the blasts in the Balochistan region, which is home to several militant factions fighting for a larger portion of the country's resources.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-ptis-imran-khan-urges-people-to-leave-houses-and-vote-via-pre-recorded-message-687945">Pakistan elections: PTI's Imran Khan urges people to ‘leave homes and vote’ via pre-recorded message</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Who are the key players?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Ahead of the polls, allegations of pre-poll rigging have marred the election in the aftermath of crackdown on the party of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, who won the 2018 election but was ousted from power four years later by a national assembly vote of no confidence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan and his party members allege that conspiracies against them might alter result of the election. In a pre-recorded message, Khan urged the nation to cast their votes. About 128 million of Pakistan's 240 million people are eligible to vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly 18,000 candidates are running for seats in the national and four provincial assemblies, with 266 seats directly contested in the former - an additional 70 reserved for women and minorities - and 749 places in the regional parliaments.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-are-disturbed-un-sympathetic-of-ex-pm-imran-khans-party-ahead-of-pak-elections-687693">Pakistan elections: Allow all eligible parties to compete fairly, UN urges govt</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Nawaz Sharif:</strong> He is the former prime minister and chief of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party. The three-time former PM returned from a four-year self-imposed exile in the United Kingdom late last year, having contested the last election from a jail cell. His convictions for corruption and a lifetime ban from politics were overturned by courts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Maryam Nawaz Sharif: </strong>She is the daughter of Nawaz and has played an influential role in the PML-N party. She was also jailed along with her father shortly before the 2018 elections on corruption charges. But the charges were later overturned.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Shehbaz Sharif:</strong> He is the younger brother of Nawaz. In his brother's absence, Shehbaz led a coalition government for 16 months following the ouster of Imran Khan until parliament was dissolved and a caretaker government took over to prepare for national elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Imran Khan:</strong> The former cricketer has been serving jail time since August. He has received multi-year bans from taking part in politics over many corruption and criminal charges, which he denies.&nbsp;The former cricket star denies wrongdoing and has blamed the country's powerful generals, who he fell out with in the lead-up to a no-confidence vote in 2022. The military denies meddling in politics.</p>

<p><strong>Bilawal Bhutto Zardari:</strong> He was the country's foreign minister until a caretaker government took over late last year. He said that he is focusing on the country's huge youth population and other issues such as climate change, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan election commission calls the explosions a 'terror attack'</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What's next for the winner?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Sharifs&nbsp;are vying to become the supreme leader, but the major task will begin after the polls when the elected leader will take the responsibility&nbsp;to govern the nuclear-armed nation of 241 million people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Analysts say that whoever wins takes over a deeply divided country with the economy in an absolute poor state. Inflation has reached an alarming level of nearly 30 per cent, the currency has been in free fall for three years and a balance-of-payments deficit has frozen imports, severely hampering industrial growth.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Pakistan is all set for a general election on Thursday (Feb 8), just hours after deadly blasts rocked the troubled nation, killing nearly 30 people and injuring dozens.

Pakistan is all set for a general election on Thursday (Feb 8), just hours after deadly blasts rocked the troubled nation, killing nearly 30 people and injuring dozens. The shocking explosions led to a tense situation across the nation, forcing authorities to deploy more than half a million security officers to maintain law and order on the polling day. The South Asian nation has been marred by several factors including, economic crisis, political instability, and a rise in terrorism. These elements pose unprecedented challenges for the nation, making this general election consequential as it is expected to pave the way for the country's future. Blasts on eve of Pakistan election The world turned its attention towards the Pakistan election, and the blasts grabbed headlines, leaving behind discussions on candidates and agenda for the nation. In the run-up to the vote, at least two candidates were shot dead and dozens more were targeted in attacks amid security incidents. Jan Achakzai, caretaker information minister for Balochistan province, said: "The aim of today's blasts was to sabotage the election. Despite today's blasts, the election will take place tomorrow. People of Balochistan will come out tomorrow without any fear." So far, there has been no immediate claim of responsibility for the blasts in the Balochistan region, which is home to several militant factions fighting for a larger portion of the country's resources. Also read: Pakistan elections: PTI's Imran Khan urges people to ‘leave homes and vote’ via pre-recorded message Who are the key players? Ahead of the polls, allegations of pre-poll rigging have marred the election in the aftermath of crackdown on the party of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, who won the 2018 election but was ousted from power four years later by a national assembly vote of no confidence. Khan and his party members allege that conspiracies against them might alter result of the election. In a pre-recorded message, Khan urged the nation to cast their votes. About 128 million of Pakistan's 240 million people are eligible to vote. Nearly 18,000 candidates are running for seats in the national and four provincial assemblies, with 266 seats directly contested in the former - an additional 70 reserved for women and minorities - and 749 places in the regional parliaments. Also read: Pakistan elections: Allow all eligible parties to compete fairly, UN urges govt Nawaz Sharif: He is the former prime minister and chief of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party. The three-time former PM returned from a four-year self-imposed exile in the United Kingdom late last year, having contested the last election from a jail cell. His convictions for corruption and a lifetime ban from politics were overturned by courts. Maryam Nawaz Sharif: She is the daughter of Nawaz and has played an influential role in the PML-N party. She was also jailed along with her father shortly before the 2018 elections on corruption charges. But the charges were later overturned. Shehbaz Sharif: He is the younger brother of Nawaz. In his brother's absence, Shehbaz led a coalition government for 16 months following the ouster of Imran Khan until parliament was dissolved and a caretaker government took over to prepare for national elections. Imran Khan: The former cricketer has been serving jail time since August. He has received multi-year bans from taking part in politics over many corruption and criminal charges, which he denies. The former cricket star denies wrongdoing and has blamed the country's powerful generals, who he fell out with in the lead-up to a no-confidence vote in 2022. The military denies meddling in politics. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari: He was the country's foreign minister until a caretaker government took over late last year. He said that he is focusing on the country's huge youth population and other issues such as climate change, and more. Watch: Pakistan election commission calls the explosions a 'terror attack' × What's next for the winner? The Sharifs are vying to become the supreme leader, but the major task will begin after the polls when the elected leader will take the responsibility to govern the nuclear-armed nation of 241 million people. Analysts say that whoever wins takes over a deeply divided country with the economy in an absolute poor state. Inflation has reached an alarming level of nearly 30 per cent, the currency has been in free fall for three years and a balance-of-payments deficit has frozen imports, severely hampering industrial growth. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Troubled nation goes to polls after day of violence, roiled by vengeful politics, crisis-hit economy

<p>Pakistan Elections 2024: Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan and other incarcerated leaders of his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party cast their votes through postal ballot from jail, Pakistani media reported as the polling is underway in the South Asian country on Thursday (February 8).</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/who-is-bushra-bibi-the-mystical-wife-of-ex-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-685993">Who is Bushra Bibi, the prayerful wife of ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan?</a></strong></p>

<p>But Bushra Bibi, Khan's wife, was unable to participate in the voting as she was convicted and arrested after the completion of the postal voting process, Pakistan's <em>Dawn</em> newspaper reported.</p>

<p>Bushra Bibi, 49, was imprisoned at Khan's Bani Gala residence after an accountability court last week sentenced her along with Imran Khan to 14 years in jail in the Toshakhana (gift repository) corruption case.</p>

<p>Mashal Yousafzai, a spokesperson for Bushra Bibi told Pakistani media that&nbsp;the spouse of the former prime minister had been denied casting the vote through a postal ballot.</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan Elections 2024: Jailed leaders who have cast their ballots</strong></h2>

<p>The leaders who have managed to vote by postal ballot include former foreign minister in Imran Khan's cabinet&nbsp;Shah Mahmood Qureshi, former Punjab chief minister Chaudhry Parvez Elahi, Awami Muslim League chief Sheikh Rashid, and former information minister Fawad Chaudhry.</p>

<p>Overall, fewer than 100 prisoners of Adiala Jail were able to vote, constituting only about one per cent of the prison's 7,000 inmates.</p>

<p>As polling are underway in Pakistan, the suspension of mobile internet services has been described as 'mockery of democracy' by the PTI leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a message, PTI Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan said Khan, 71, had dedicated everything, including his life, to that cause.</p>

<p>"As citizens of the country, we have a debt to pay. We must use our vote to change the face of Pakistan by dismantling a rotten system that has cast a vicious stranglehold on the country and its people," he said in a post on X.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran Khan casts his vote from Adiala jail, wife Bushra misses out</strong></p>

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<p>Khan's party has been stripped of its cricket bat symbol and instead the candidates backed by the PTI are contesting as independents.</p>

<p>The party, however, created a specific website that directs people across Pakistan to the candidates that are backed by the PTI in specific constituencies.</p>

<p>But with mobile internet suspended, people across Pakistan would find it difficult to figure out which candidate in their constituency is backed by the PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-will-imran-khan-bowl-out-army-from-prison-687168">Pakistan Elections 2024: Will Imran Khan bowl out army from prison?</a></b></p>

<p>Cricketer-turned-politician Khan, who has been in jail since August last year, has recently been given 10, 14 and seven years of imprisonment in cipher, Toshakhana and Iddat (his third 'unlawful' marriage) cases, respectively.</p>

<p>Pakistan's election commission has also rejected Imran Khan's nomination papers and those of other party leaders.</p>

<p>At least one of his party leaders was killed during polling-related violence and in the latest, a key candidate from Lahore was indicted in a terrorism case.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan Elections 2024: Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan and other incarcerated leaders of his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party cast their votes through postal ballot from jail, Pakistani media reported as the polling is underway in the South Asian country on Thursday (February 8).

Pakistan Elections 2024: Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan and other incarcerated leaders of his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party cast their votes through postal ballot from jail, Pakistani media reported as the polling is underway in the South Asian country on Thursday (February 8). Also read | Who is Bushra Bibi, the prayerful wife of ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan? But Bushra Bibi, Khan's wife, was unable to participate in the voting as she was convicted and arrested after the completion of the postal voting process, Pakistan's Dawn newspaper reported. Bushra Bibi, 49, was imprisoned at Khan's Bani Gala residence after an accountability court last week sentenced her along with Imran Khan to 14 years in jail in the Toshakhana (gift repository) corruption case. Mashal Yousafzai, a spokesperson for Bushra Bibi told Pakistani media that the spouse of the former prime minister had been denied casting the vote through a postal ballot. Pakistan Elections 2024: Jailed leaders who have cast their ballots The leaders who have managed to vote by postal ballot include former foreign minister in Imran Khan's cabinet Shah Mahmood Qureshi, former Punjab chief minister Chaudhry Parvez Elahi, Awami Muslim League chief Sheikh Rashid, and former information minister Fawad Chaudhry. Overall, fewer than 100 prisoners of Adiala Jail were able to vote, constituting only about one per cent of the prison's 7,000 inmates. As polling are underway in Pakistan, the suspension of mobile internet services has been described as 'mockery of democracy' by the PTI leaders. In a message, PTI Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan said Khan, 71, had dedicated everything, including his life, to that cause. "As citizens of the country, we have a debt to pay. We must use our vote to change the face of Pakistan by dismantling a rotten system that has cast a vicious stranglehold on the country and its people," he said in a post on X. Also watch | Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran Khan casts his vote from Adiala jail, wife Bushra misses out × Khan's party has been stripped of its cricket bat symbol and instead the candidates backed by the PTI are contesting as independents. The party, however, created a specific website that directs people across Pakistan to the candidates that are backed by the PTI in specific constituencies. But with mobile internet suspended, people across Pakistan would find it difficult to figure out which candidate in their constituency is backed by the PTI. Also read | Pakistan Elections 2024: Will Imran Khan bowl out army from prison? Cricketer-turned-politician Khan, who has been in jail since August last year, has recently been given 10, 14 and seven years of imprisonment in cipher, Toshakhana and Iddat (his third 'unlawful' marriage) cases, respectively. Pakistan's election commission has also rejected Imran Khan's nomination papers and those of other party leaders. At least one of his party leaders was killed during polling-related violence and in the latest, a key candidate from Lahore was indicted in a terrorism case. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran Khan casts postal ballot, wife Bushra denied right to vote

<p>As Pakistan gears up for elections, candidates like Aamir Mughal wield unusual symbols, like eggplants or "baingan," assigned to them by the Election Commission.&nbsp;Mughal, a contender vying for Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, aligns with imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Khan's supporters, now standing as independent candidates in the upcoming February national election, have been allocated electoral symbols, with Mughal's being the eggplant. These symbols, while often bizarre, play a crucial role in identifying candidates, especially in regions with low literacy rates.</p>

<p>The military-backed crackdown on opposition parties has intensified the challenges faced by candidates.</p>

<p>With Imran Khan's party losing its cricket bat emblem, his followers, now contesting as independents, encounter harassment and symbol-related hurdles, complicating their electoral bids.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-will-imran-khan-bowl-out-army-from-prison-687168">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan Elections 2024: Will Imran Khan bowl out army from prison?</a></p>

<h2><strong>Eggplants and endorsements</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the comedic undertones, candidates like Mughal creatively embrace their symbols. Mughal's eggplant-themed campaign, a nod to Imran Khan's affiliation, gained&nbsp;traction, with the vegetable's popularity soaring and becoming synonymous with the candidate's association.</p>

<p>In Punjab, Ejaz Gaddan's (a 50-year-old Bahawalpur candidate) bed symbol evoked&nbsp;mixed reactions. While perceived as humiliating by some, Gaddan reframes its significance, highlighting its practical utility and cultural resonance, drawing connections to life and death in Pakistani households.</p>

<p>Candidates like Shehryar Afridi confront symbols with negative connotations, like the bottle, associated with emptiness or alcohol in local contexts. Afridi ingeniously reinterpreted&nbsp;the symbol, transforming it into a medicine bottle to address societal issues and combat stigma.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Power Play: 77 years and no full-term Prime Minister&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2 data-testid="embed-heading"><strong>What is an electoral symbol?</strong></h2>

<p>An electoral symbol, a distinct pictorial representation, is allocated by Pakistan's election commission to political entities and candidates. These symbols, displayed on ballot papers, aid voters, particularly the large illiterate population, in identifying their preferred choice. Pakistan's electoral landscape encompasses numerous candidates and parties, each represented by a symbol on the ballot paper, facilitating the voting process. While parties typically maintain longstanding symbols, such as Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its cricket bat emblem, the Election Commission recently revoked PTI's symbol due to procedural issues, sparking allegations of military interference, vehemently denied by the army.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As Pakistan gears up for elections, candidates like Aamir Mughal wield unusual symbols, like eggplants or "baingan," assigned to them by the Election Commission.

As Pakistan gears up for elections, candidates like Aamir Mughal wield unusual symbols, like eggplants or "baingan," assigned to them by the Election Commission. Mughal, a contender vying for Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, aligns with imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Khan's supporters, now standing as independent candidates in the upcoming February national election, have been allocated electoral symbols, with Mughal's being the eggplant. These symbols, while often bizarre, play a crucial role in identifying candidates, especially in regions with low literacy rates. The military-backed crackdown on opposition parties has intensified the challenges faced by candidates. With Imran Khan's party losing its cricket bat emblem, his followers, now contesting as independents, encounter harassment and symbol-related hurdles, complicating their electoral bids. Also read | Pakistan Elections 2024: Will Imran Khan bowl out army from prison? Eggplants and endorsements Despite the comedic undertones, candidates like Mughal creatively embrace their symbols. Mughal's eggplant-themed campaign, a nod to Imran Khan's affiliation, gained traction, with the vegetable's popularity soaring and becoming synonymous with the candidate's association. In Punjab, Ejaz Gaddan's (a 50-year-old Bahawalpur candidate) bed symbol evoked mixed reactions. While perceived as humiliating by some, Gaddan reframes its significance, highlighting its practical utility and cultural resonance, drawing connections to life and death in Pakistani households. Candidates like Shehryar Afridi confront symbols with negative connotations, like the bottle, associated with emptiness or alcohol in local contexts. Afridi ingeniously reinterpreted the symbol, transforming it into a medicine bottle to address societal issues and combat stigma. Also watch | Pakistan Power Play: 77 years and no full-term Prime Minister What is an electoral symbol? An electoral symbol, a distinct pictorial representation, is allocated by Pakistan's election commission to political entities and candidates. These symbols, displayed on ballot papers, aid voters, particularly the large illiterate population, in identifying their preferred choice. Pakistan's electoral landscape encompasses numerous candidates and parties, each represented by a symbol on the ballot paper, facilitating the voting process. While parties typically maintain longstanding symbols, such as Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its cricket bat emblem, the Election Commission recently revoked PTI's symbol due to procedural issues, sparking allegations of military interference, vehemently denied by the army. (With inputs from agencies)

Eggplants, lions and hookahs: How Pakistan's polls became the stage for comic electoral symbols

Pakistan temporarily suspended mobile phone services on Thursday to strengthen security as voting began in the country's national election, the interior ministry said.

Pakistan elections 2024: Mobile services temporarily suspended as voting begins in the country

<p>Pakistan Elections 2024: It's not the first time that India's western neighbour, which came into being in 1947 after a bitter partition on religious lines, is going to polls with an imprisoned former prime minister. As Pakistan goes to polls on February 8, Imran Khan, the South Asian nation's Cricket World Cup-winning captain-turned-politician, is the prisoner number 804 at a jail in Rawalpindi, Islamabad's satellite town that houses Pakistan Army's headquarters.</p>

<p>Khan cast his vote through postal ballot from Adiala jail, minutes after it was reported that mobile phone services including the internet was suspended across Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-islamabads-game-of-thrones-stacked-against-imran-khan-641534">The Capitals: Islamabad's game of thrones stacked against Imran Khan</a></strong></p>

<p>This Muslim-majority country of 241 million holds a rare distinction as a state where&nbsp;no prime minister has ever finished full term. The elections are widely believed to be 'selections' by the military-intelligence nexus that has long dominated the country's politics and has directly ruled for several decades.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Imran Khan: Ousted in April 2022, shot in November, 2022</strong></h2>

<p>The former Pakistani prime minister was ousted from power following a parliamentary no-trust-vote in April 2022. His administration was replaced with a coalition government led by Shehbaz Sharif.</p>

<p>That coalition was replaced by an unelected caretaker government in&nbsp;August 2023.</p>

<p>On 3 November 2022, Khan was shot in an assassination attempt in Wazirabad, Punjab, during a political rally. As his falling out with the country's powerful army dominated the political discourse, dozens of cases followed Khan's way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Then a major moment of reckoning came.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Imran Khan's supporters pulled off a '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-coup-or-not-coup-pakistan-armys-options-after-imran-khans-mini-intifada-592986">mini-intifada</a>' in May 2023 against Pakistani military.</p>

<p>It did not take long for a&nbsp;number of high-profile exits from the PTI that rocked the boat of populism Khan was sailing in.</p>

<p>Since August 2023, Khan has been in custody following a conviction in a corruption case, among dozens of cases lodged against him since he was ousted from power after a parliamentary no-trust vote in April 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On August 9, 2023,&nbsp;Pakistan's election commission formally disqualified&nbsp;Khan for five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-election-commission-spells-endgame-for-imran-khan-till-2028-623623">Endgame for Imran Khan as Pakistan's election commission bars him from politics till 2028</a></strong></p>

<p>With just days to go for polling,&nbsp;Pakistan's courts handed down two more sentences to Khan<a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-68150959">,</a>&nbsp;who was already serving three years in prison.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-arrest-how-isi-angels-rule-pakistan-590710">Imran Khan arrest: How ISI 'angels' rule Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Even during arrest, Khan deployed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-ex-pm-imran-khan-starts-campaign-from-prison-using-ai-voice-clone-671331">Artificial Intelligence</a>&nbsp;to campaign. But then came Pakistan's election commission's order that stripped his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of its election symbol, the cricket bat. Pakistani election commission's order has emerged as a real blow to whatever was left of Khan's prospects in the elections after his fallout with the army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is because&nbsp;Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia, with some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province particularly backwards in terms of Human Development Indicators. Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its bat symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the cricket bat across Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In fact, '<em>Ballay pe thappa</em>' (Stamp on the Bat) was the defining rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, managed to put together a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The PTI-backed candidates are now contesting elections as independents&nbsp;with their own symbols.</p>

<p>The party has developed a website where voters can put in their constituency and discover their PTI-backed candidate’s symbol.</p>

<p>On the voting day, with internet and mobile phone services suspended, the expectations of Khan's ability to bowl out army from prison have toned down further.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan Elections 2024: It's not the first time that India's western neighbour, which came into being in 1947 after a bitter partition on religious lines, is going to polls with an imprisoned former prime minister.

Pakistan Elections 2024: It's not the first time that India's western neighbour, which came into being in 1947 after a bitter partition on religious lines, is going to polls with an imprisoned former prime minister. As Pakistan goes to polls on February 8, Imran Khan, the South Asian nation's Cricket World Cup-winning captain-turned-politician, is the prisoner number 804 at a jail in Rawalpindi, Islamabad's satellite town that houses Pakistan Army's headquarters. Khan cast his vote through postal ballot from Adiala jail, minutes after it was reported that mobile phone services including the internet was suspended across Pakistan. Also read | The Capitals: Islamabad's game of thrones stacked against Imran Khan This Muslim-majority country of 241 million holds a rare distinction as a state where no prime minister has ever finished full term. The elections are widely believed to be 'selections' by the military-intelligence nexus that has long dominated the country's politics and has directly ruled for several decades. Imran Khan: Ousted in April 2022, shot in November, 2022 The former Pakistani prime minister was ousted from power following a parliamentary no-trust-vote in April 2022. His administration was replaced with a coalition government led by Shehbaz Sharif. That coalition was replaced by an unelected caretaker government in August 2023. On 3 November 2022, Khan was shot in an assassination attempt in Wazirabad, Punjab, during a political rally. As his falling out with the country's powerful army dominated the political discourse, dozens of cases followed Khan's way. Then a major moment of reckoning came. Imran Khan's supporters pulled off a 'mini-intifada' in May 2023 against Pakistani military. It did not take long for a number of high-profile exits from the PTI that rocked the boat of populism Khan was sailing in. Since August 2023, Khan has been in custody following a conviction in a corruption case, among dozens of cases lodged against him since he was ousted from power after a parliamentary no-trust vote in April 2022. On August 9, 2023, Pakistan's election commission formally disqualified Khan for five years. Also read | Endgame for Imran Khan as Pakistan's election commission bars him from politics till 2028 With just days to go for polling, Pakistan's courts handed down two more sentences to Khan, who was already serving three years in prison. Also read | Imran Khan arrest: How ISI 'angels' rule Pakistan Even during arrest, Khan deployed Artificial Intelligence to campaign. But then came Pakistan's election commission's order that stripped his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of its election symbol, the cricket bat. Pakistani election commission's order has emerged as a real blow to whatever was left of Khan's prospects in the elections after his fallout with the army. This is because Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia, with some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province particularly backwards in terms of Human Development Indicators. Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its bat symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the cricket bat across Pakistan. In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the defining rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, managed to put together a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office. The PTI-backed candidates are now contesting elections as independents with their own symbols. The party has developed a website where voters can put in their constituency and discover their PTI-backed candidate’s symbol. On the voting day, with internet and mobile phone services suspended, the expectations of Khan's ability to bowl out army from prison have toned down further. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Elections 2024: Will Imran Khan bowl out army from prison?

Polls opened at 8am (03:00 GMT) and will close at 5pm (12:00 GMT). Polling may be extended in some areas as per election commission’s rules.

Pakistan elections 2024: Will Bilawal Bhutto's outside bid succeed?

<p>On the eve of Pakistan's general elections, former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has released a pre-recorded message from the leader to the nation's public.</p>

<p>In the video message released on X, previously known as Twitter, the PTI Chairman urged Pakistanis to "leave their homes and vote tomorrow".</p>

<h2><strong>'For your future'</strong></h2>

<p>Posting the video from Khan's Twitter handle, his team wrote, "Founding Chairman Imran Khan's pre-recorded message for General Elections."</p>

<p>"Make sure you come out and vote in huge numbers tomorrow," it added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-election-commission-cautions-influencers-media-from-doing-anything-to-influence-elections-687625">Pakistan Election Commission cautions social media influencers, media from doing anything to sway elections</a></strong></p>

<p>In the video, Imran Khan, who is currently behind bars, reminded people that "tomorrow is election day" and said that he wants them to "leave their homes," to go and vote. Asking them to take along the people they know, he says that only through elections they (people) can change their and their children's "mustaqbil"&nbsp;(future).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch the video message here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Founding Chairman Imran Khan's prerecorded message for General Elections.<br />
<br />
Make sure you come out and Vote in huge numbers tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/vRbo51ZhG2">pic.twitter.com/vRbo51ZhG2</a></p>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1755175040528871460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Delay in election results possible</strong></h2>

<p>Imran Khan's message comes as the Pakistan Election Commission on Wednesday (Feb 7th) noted that polling results can be delayed in different constituencies due to security and other reasons.</p>

<p>Geo News quotes ECP project management unit's Director Col (retd.) Saad as saying that "the results can be delayed in different constituencies due to security and other reasons."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan's ex-PM Imran Khan releases pre-recorded message</strong></p>

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<p>"We are in contact with all telecom companies and Nepra has assured us that there will be no load shedding tomorrow," he added.</p>

<p>Ahead of the February 8 elections, on Wednesday, two back-to-back blasts in Balochistan claimed the lives of 26 people, while several others were injured. The first attack, as per Dawn newspaper, took place outside the election office of independent candidate Asfandyar Kakar in Pishin. Shortly after the first attack, the second blast was reported in Qila Saifullah.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-balochistan-govt-bans-public-meetings-electoral-gatherings-after-suicide-bomb-threat-686922">Pakistan elections: Balochistan govt bans public meetings, electoral gatherings after ‘suicide bomber’ threat</a></strong></p>

<p>Following the blasts, as per a Geo News report quoting the provincial health secretary, an emergency has been imposed across hospitals in Quetta for which additional staff has also been called.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On the eve of Pakistan's general elections, former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has released a pre-recorded message from the leader to the nation's public.

On the eve of Pakistan's general elections, former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has released a pre-recorded message from the leader to the nation's public. In the video message released on X, previously known as Twitter, the PTI Chairman urged Pakistanis to "leave their homes and vote tomorrow". 'For your future' Posting the video from Khan's Twitter handle, his team wrote, "Founding Chairman Imran Khan's pre-recorded message for General Elections." "Make sure you come out and vote in huge numbers tomorrow," it added. Also read | Pakistan Election Commission cautions social media influencers, media from doing anything to sway elections In the video, Imran Khan, who is currently behind bars, reminded people that "tomorrow is election day" and said that he wants them to "leave their homes," to go and vote. Asking them to take along the people they know, he says that only through elections they (people) can change their and their children's "mustaqbil" (future). Watch the video message here: Founding Chairman Imran Khan's prerecorded message for General Elections. Make sure you come out and Vote in huge numbers tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/vRbo51ZhG2 — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) February 7, 2024 × Delay in election results possible Imran Khan's message comes as the Pakistan Election Commission on Wednesday (Feb 7th) noted that polling results can be delayed in different constituencies due to security and other reasons. Geo News quotes ECP project management unit's Director Col (retd.) Saad as saying that "the results can be delayed in different constituencies due to security and other reasons." Watch | Pakistan's ex-PM Imran Khan releases pre-recorded message × "We are in contact with all telecom companies and Nepra has assured us that there will be no load shedding tomorrow," he added. Ahead of the February 8 elections, on Wednesday, two back-to-back blasts in Balochistan claimed the lives of 26 people, while several others were injured. The first attack, as per Dawn newspaper, took place outside the election office of independent candidate Asfandyar Kakar in Pishin. Shortly after the first attack, the second blast was reported in Qila Saifullah. Also read | Pakistan elections: Balochistan govt bans public meetings, electoral gatherings after ‘suicide bomber’ threat Following the blasts, as per a Geo News report quoting the provincial health secretary, an emergency has been imposed across hospitals in Quetta for which additional staff has also been called. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan elections: PTI's Imran Khan urges people to ‘leave homes and vote’ via pre-recorded message

In a surprise move former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan who is behind bars, has released a message for the voters. Imran has been in jail since august 2023. Along with Imran, numerous candidates of his party, PTI are behind bars or on the run from criminal and terrorism charges that they say are politically motivated. Now just hours before the country goes to poll, Imran has released his statement. Listen in to Imran Khan's message to voters.

Pakistan's ex-PM Imran Khan releases pre-recorded message

<p>Ahead of the parliamentary elections slated to be held this week in Pakistan, the South Asian nation's election commission has issued a notice to the national media and social media influencers for strict adherence to the code of conduct.</p>

<p>In its notice on Tuesday (Feb 6th), the Election Commission of Pakistan advised the national media to strictly adhere to "ECP's Code of Conduct to ensure ethical journalism and responsible and balanced reporting for a smooth and peaceful conduct of the General Elections."</p>

<h2><strong>No prejudices allowed</strong></h2>

<p>The notice states that the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) as the regulator must ensure that the national media under its regulatory framework adheres to the code of conduct.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/message-of-preace-to-india-former-pakistan-pm-nawaz-sharif-releases-party-manifesto-684253">Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif's party manifesto talks of ‘message of peace’ for India, but conditions apply</a></strong></p>

<p>It informed the media that the Election Commission's Code of Conduct "forbids the media from reflecting any opinion prejudicial to the ideology, sovereignty, dignity, or security of Pakistan, public order or the integrity and independence of the judiciary of Pakistan and other national institutions."</p>

<p>Furthermore, it forbade the media from "airing or displaying on electronic, digital and social media, any allegations and statements which may harm national solidarity or may create law and order situation during the entire election process, including poll day and after poll."</p>

<h2><strong>Social media influencers cautioned</strong></h2>

<p>The notice also cautioned social media influencers to refrain from actions that may "influence the voters' free choice of casting vote".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-balochistan-govt-bans-public-meetings-electoral-gatherings-after-suicide-bomb-threat-686922">Pakistan elections: Balochistan govt bans public meetings, electoral gatherings after ‘suicide bomber’ threat</a></strong></p>

<p>"Print &amp; electronic media and any journalist, newspaper, and channel on their official accounts on digital media, and other social media influencers shall refrain from entrance and exit polls or conducting any kind of surveys at any polling station or constituency which may influence the voters' free choice of casting vote or hinder the process&nbsp;in&nbsp;any&nbsp;way," it said.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the notice instructs media to not air any unofficial results at least until "one hour has passed after the close of poll".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ahead of the parliamentary elections slated to be held this week in Pakistan, the South Asian nation's election commission has issued a notice to the national media and social media influencers for strict adherence to the code of conduct.

Ahead of the parliamentary elections slated to be held this week in Pakistan, the South Asian nation's election commission has issued a notice to the national media and social media influencers for strict adherence to the code of conduct. In its notice on Tuesday (Feb 6th), the Election Commission of Pakistan advised the national media to strictly adhere to "ECP's Code of Conduct to ensure ethical journalism and responsible and balanced reporting for a smooth and peaceful conduct of the General Elections." No prejudices allowed The notice states that the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) as the regulator must ensure that the national media under its regulatory framework adheres to the code of conduct. Also read | Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif's party manifesto talks of ‘message of peace’ for India, but conditions apply It informed the media that the Election Commission's Code of Conduct "forbids the media from reflecting any opinion prejudicial to the ideology, sovereignty, dignity, or security of Pakistan, public order or the integrity and independence of the judiciary of Pakistan and other national institutions." Furthermore, it forbade the media from "airing or displaying on electronic, digital and social media, any allegations and statements which may harm national solidarity or may create law and order situation during the entire election process, including poll day and after poll." Social media influencers cautioned The notice also cautioned social media influencers to refrain from actions that may "influence the voters' free choice of casting vote". Also read | Pakistan elections: Balochistan govt bans public meetings, electoral gatherings after ‘suicide bomber’ threat "Print & electronic media and any journalist, newspaper, and channel on their official accounts on digital media, and other social media influencers shall refrain from entrance and exit polls or conducting any kind of surveys at any polling station or constituency which may influence the voters' free choice of casting vote or hinder the process in any way," it said. Furthermore, the notice instructs media to not air any unofficial results at least until "one hour has passed after the close of poll". (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Election Commission cautions social media influencers, media from doing anything to sway elections

<p>Bushra Bibi, wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, has contested&nbsp;her confinement to Bani Gala residence to serve a 14-year sentence in the Toshakhana case, alleging discriminatory treatment and security concerns.</p>

<p>In her petition, Bushra Bibi asserts her readiness to serve her sentence in Adiala Jail, like other political workers, rather than in the designated sub-jail at her residence, as reported by The News.</p>

<p>Expressing unease over potential security risks, Bushra Bibi highlighted&nbsp;the movement of unidentified individuals in the declared sub-jail, contributing to her sense of insecurity despite her current good health.</p>

<p>She deems the "special treatment" afforded to her as contrary to constitutional principles of equality, urging the court to intervene in the interest of justice.</p>

<p>Considering the outlined reasons, Bushra Bibi implores the court to annul the notification declaring her house a sub-jail and relocate her to Adiala Jail.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-can-nawaz-sharif-put-pakistans-economy-back-on-track-687444">Also read | Data lab | Pak economy has been in the red for decades. Can Nawaz Sharif engineer a turnaround?</a></p>

<h2><strong>Here's some context</strong></h2>

<p>Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and his&nbsp;wife Bushra Khan have been handed a seven-year prison term and fined by a court for their marriage in 2018&nbsp;that has been deemed illegal. This marks Khan's third ruling against him this week, with a prohibition from participating in the upcoming national elections.</p>

<p>Apart from the marriage ruling, Khan and his wife were convicted of leaking state secrets and unlawfully selling state gifts. Representatives for Khan have announced plans to appeal all three verdicts.</p>

<p>Imran Khan is currently serving his sentence in Rawalpindi, while Bushra Khan will serve hers at their residence in Islamabad.&nbsp;Additionally, the couple faces a fine of 500,000 rupees or approximately $1,800 each.</p>

<p>Commenting on Imran Khan's imprisonment, his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) issued a statement, condemning the legal proceedings: "After hours of rushed hearings at court, no cross-examination of witnesses, and no due process - a mockery of law."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Elections 2024: 46% Women on electoral list, ground reality starkly different</strong></p>

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<p>"With the way these trials are being conducted, there will be a huge question mark on the February 8th elections. This is a test case for Pakistan's higher judiciary," the statement further read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The legality of the Khans' marriage was questioned due to an alleged breach of the Islamic waiting period following divorce, referred to as 'Iddat'. In Islam, Iddat mandates a period during which a woman must refrain from marrying another man, following the death of her husband or after a divorce, aimed at resolving uncertainties regarding the paternity of a child born subsequently. Typically, Iddat lasts for three lunar months or approximately 89 days, although it is not applicable if the marriage was not consummated.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Bushra Bibi, wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, has contested her confinement to Bani Gala residence to serve a 14-year sentence in the Toshakhana case, alleging discriminatory treatment and security concerns.

Bushra Bibi, wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, has contested her confinement to Bani Gala residence to serve a 14-year sentence in the Toshakhana case, alleging discriminatory treatment and security concerns. In her petition, Bushra Bibi asserts her readiness to serve her sentence in Adiala Jail, like other political workers, rather than in the designated sub-jail at her residence, as reported by The News. Expressing unease over potential security risks, Bushra Bibi highlighted the movement of unidentified individuals in the declared sub-jail, contributing to her sense of insecurity despite her current good health. She deems the "special treatment" afforded to her as contrary to constitutional principles of equality, urging the court to intervene in the interest of justice. Considering the outlined reasons, Bushra Bibi implores the court to annul the notification declaring her house a sub-jail and relocate her to Adiala Jail. Also read | Data lab | Pak economy has been in the red for decades. Can Nawaz Sharif engineer a turnaround? Here's some context Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Khan have been handed a seven-year prison term and fined by a court for their marriage in 2018 that has been deemed illegal. This marks Khan's third ruling against him this week, with a prohibition from participating in the upcoming national elections. Apart from the marriage ruling, Khan and his wife were convicted of leaking state secrets and unlawfully selling state gifts. Representatives for Khan have announced plans to appeal all three verdicts. Imran Khan is currently serving his sentence in Rawalpindi, while Bushra Khan will serve hers at their residence in Islamabad. Additionally, the couple faces a fine of 500,000 rupees or approximately $1,800 each. Commenting on Imran Khan's imprisonment, his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) issued a statement, condemning the legal proceedings: "After hours of rushed hearings at court, no cross-examination of witnesses, and no due process - a mockery of law." Also watch | Pakistan Elections 2024: 46% Women on electoral list, ground reality starkly different "With the way these trials are being conducted, there will be a huge question mark on the February 8th elections. This is a test case for Pakistan's higher judiciary," the statement further read. The legality of the Khans' marriage was questioned due to an alleged breach of the Islamic waiting period following divorce, referred to as 'Iddat'. In Islam, Iddat mandates a period during which a woman must refrain from marrying another man, following the death of her husband or after a divorce, aimed at resolving uncertainties regarding the paternity of a child born subsequently. Typically, Iddat lasts for three lunar months or approximately 89 days, although it is not applicable if the marriage was not consummated. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak: Bushra Bibi challenges house arrest in Toshakhana case citing discrimination, security concerns

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid9VJ55Uuhen1y" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Ahead of Thursday's (Feb 8) parliamentary election, the United Nations human rights agency has voiced concern regarding Pakistan's crackdown on the opposition party of former prime minister Imran Khan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Elizabeth Throssell, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on Tuesday (Feb 6) urged the Pakistani authorities to allow all "eligible parties to compete fairly".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are disturbed, therefore, by the pattern of harassment, arrests and prolonged detentions of leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party and their supporters, which has continued during the election period," said Throssell.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We expect the higher courts will carefully review these conclusions in line with applicable due process and fair trial rights and Pakistan's wider international human rights obligations," she added, referring to the charges rejected by Khan and his party levelled against him.</p>

<p>While the UN appears sombre at the state of affairs in the South Asian country, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Tuesday told a delegation of foreign election observers that his government had made possible arrangements to ensure the seamless conduct of elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, hours later, Federal Interior Minister Gohar Ejaz said the government may temporarily disrupt internet service in parts of the country during Thursday's election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As of now, no decision has been made. If a request is received from a province or a district, we will assess the threat level in that area," Ejaz told reporters in Islamabad.</p>

<p>"Terrorists use WhatsApp for internal communication. If there is terrorist activity, should we not stop communication?" he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-elections-128-million-voters-preparing-to-elect-a-new-government-687561" target="_blank"><strong>Watch | Pakistan elections: 128 million voters preparing to elect a new government</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Khan's political downfall</strong></h2>

<p>Khan was handed three back-to-back lengthy prison sentences last week for treason, graft and a marriage that did not meet Islamic law requirements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the PTI chief in jail and his party barred from contesting as a bloc, the election results are all but a foregone conclusion already. The path is clear for Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to win the most seats and give a fourth term as premier to its founder, Nawaz Sharif.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-election-date-results-announcement-1707142892926" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Pakistan elections 2024: Full schedule, election date, results announcement and more</strong></a></p>

<p>The canvassing trail in the country came to a halt on Tuesday midnight but even then, it remained highly lacklustre, despite Thursday's polls being the first general election since 2018. The voting will be held in a single phase with the results expected to be published by the Election Commission of Pakistan within 14 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ahead of Thursday's (Feb 8) parliamentary election, the United Nations human rights agency has voiced concern regarding Pakistan's crackdown on the opposition party of former prime minister Imran Khan.

Ahead of Thursday's (Feb 8) parliamentary election, the United Nations human rights agency has voiced concern regarding Pakistan's crackdown on the opposition party of former prime minister Imran Khan. Elizabeth Throssell, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on Tuesday (Feb 6) urged the Pakistani authorities to allow all "eligible parties to compete fairly". "We are disturbed, therefore, by the pattern of harassment, arrests and prolonged detentions of leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party and their supporters, which has continued during the election period," said Throssell. "We expect the higher courts will carefully review these conclusions in line with applicable due process and fair trial rights and Pakistan's wider international human rights obligations," she added, referring to the charges rejected by Khan and his party levelled against him. While the UN appears sombre at the state of affairs in the South Asian country, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Tuesday told a delegation of foreign election observers that his government had made possible arrangements to ensure the seamless conduct of elections. However, hours later, Federal Interior Minister Gohar Ejaz said the government may temporarily disrupt internet service in parts of the country during Thursday's election. "As of now, no decision has been made. If a request is received from a province or a district, we will assess the threat level in that area," Ejaz told reporters in Islamabad. "Terrorists use WhatsApp for internal communication. If there is terrorist activity, should we not stop communication?" he added. Watch | Pakistan elections: 128 million voters preparing to elect a new government × Khan's political downfall Khan was handed three back-to-back lengthy prison sentences last week for treason, graft and a marriage that did not meet Islamic law requirements. With the PTI chief in jail and his party barred from contesting as a bloc, the election results are all but a foregone conclusion already. The path is clear for Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to win the most seats and give a fourth term as premier to its founder, Nawaz Sharif. Also read | Pakistan elections 2024: Full schedule, election date, results announcement and more The canvassing trail in the country came to a halt on Tuesday midnight but even then, it remained highly lacklustre, despite Thursday's polls being the first general election since 2018. The voting will be held in a single phase with the results expected to be published by the Election Commission of Pakistan within 14 days. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan elections: Allow all eligible parties to compete fairly, UN urges govt

<p>Pakistan is heading to polls on Thursday (Feb 8)&nbsp;in the throes of an economic downturn.&nbsp;The South Asian nation is grappling with formidable challenges including crippling inflation, a persistently weakening currency, and critically low foreign reserves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In January 2024, the <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=PAKISTAN+BERAEU+OF+STATISTICS&amp;sca_esv=f8ea33c309cd8c22&amp;rlz=1C1GCEU_en-GBIN1035IN1035&amp;sxsrf=ACQVn08TBZS-DBOlBfWJsZ3xgPEmdE1LiQ%3A1707198862285&amp;ei=jsnBZbmLEfWQ4-EPnJ2RmA4&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi5iv2tg5aEAxV1yDgGHZxOBOMQ4dUDCBA&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=PAKISTAN+BERAEU+OF+STATISTICS&amp;gs_lp=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&amp;sclient=gws-wiz-serp">Pakistan Bureau of Statistics</a> reported a 28 per cent&nbsp;year-on-year inflation. Last week, fuel prices experienced another hike, and substantial electricity bills are anticipated for citizens this upcoming summer.</p>

<p>Additionally, Pakistan is confronted with a substantial debt repayment burden of $77.5 billion over the next three years, constituting nearly a quarter of its gross domestic product.</p>

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<p>In their election manifestos, political parties vow to tackle these economic woes. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), led by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, aims to increase annual exports to $60 billion and raise remittances from overseas Pakistanis to $40bn.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the question remains:<strong> Can Nawaz Sharif truly navigate the uphill road?</strong></p>

<p>WION spoke to Sharat Sabharwal, former Indian ambassador to Pakistan, to gain insights into the potential implications of a government led by Nawaz Sharif for Pakistan.</p>

<p>"The 2024 Pakistan parliamentary election is a mirror image of the 2018 poll, in the sense that Imran Khan was the spirit then and Nawaz Sharif was hated, and that has gotten reversed now. 2018 was a managed and fixed election, and 2024 is also the same," Ambassador Sabharwal told WION.</p>

<p>Nawaz Sharif&nbsp;returned to Pakistan from his exile in London, purportedly as part of an agreement with the military, as per several reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is also evident from the sudden termination of many&nbsp;legal proceedings against him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked about what a Sharif-led government would entail, Ambassador Sabharwal said his instincts were good on relations with India. "He realises the economic burden of Pakistan and also sees stabilising relations with India as a way of&nbsp;cutting the salience of the Army in the Pakistani polity."</p>

<p>"But his ability to deliver will depend on the army's will," he noted.</p>

<p>Additionally, the PML-N has vowed&nbsp;to finalise a $10 billion oil refinery deal with Saudi Arabia, diversify refining sources, and advance the Main Line 1 rail project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).</p>

<p>Ambassador Sabharwal noted that while these initiatives may initially stimulate economic growth, they also contribute to the country's debt burden in the long run.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), led by former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, has pledged&nbsp;to double per capita income within five years and provide free electricity to underprivileged families for up to 300 kilowatt-hours. However, neither party has elaborated on their strategies for achieving these goals.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-will-imran-khan-bowl-out-army-from-prison-687168">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan Elections 2024: Will Imran Khan bowl out army from prison?</a></p>

<p>While observers acknowledge the necessity of forming a government in Pakistan, they are also aware of the military's influence in orchestrating elections and selecting leaders.</p>

<p>Analysts suggest that Pakistan will require immediate financial assistance from international allies in the near future. The country currently has an active bailout arrangement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) valued at approximately $3bn, albeit with stringent conditions including budgetary adjustments and increased fuel prices.</p>

<p>"There are no short-term solutions. Pakistan will have to negotiate more loans from the IMF for debt restructuring. It will have to take some tough decisions, which will cause a lot of economic pain to the poor,"&nbsp;Prof Ajay Darshan Behera,&nbsp;Academy of International Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to concerns regarding fairness, the electoral process is also endangered by the spectre&nbsp;of violence.</p>

<p>The most recent incident occurred early on Monday (Feb 5), when militants in the northwest region of the country killed at least 10 police officers, adding to a series of attacks.</p>

<p>"The issue of terrorism has not received adequate media attention due to the political instability in the country since April 2022. The reality is incidents of terrorism have grown significantly in the bordering regions of Afghanistan and Balochistan since the Taliban takeover of power in August 2021. The establishment is determined to go ahead with the scheduled elections. Still, we may likely see a spurt in the incidents of terrorism in the political uncertainties of the transfer of power," noted Prof Behera.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, it all hinges on the military's approval and the extent to which they permit any sitting prime minister to act.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan is heading to polls on Thursday (Feb 8) in the throes of an economic downturn. The South Asian nation is grappling with formidable challenges including crippling inflation, a persistently weakening currency, and critically low foreign reserves.

Pakistan is heading to polls on Thursday (Feb 8) in the throes of an economic downturn. The South Asian nation is grappling with formidable challenges including crippling inflation, a persistently weakening currency, and critically low foreign reserves. In January 2024, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics reported a 28 per cent year-on-year inflation. Last week, fuel prices experienced another hike, and substantial electricity bills are anticipated for citizens this upcoming summer. Additionally, Pakistan is confronted with a substantial debt repayment burden of $77.5 billion over the next three years, constituting nearly a quarter of its gross domestic product. × In their election manifestos, political parties vow to tackle these economic woes. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), led by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, aims to increase annual exports to $60 billion and raise remittances from overseas Pakistanis to $40bn. However, the question remains: Can Nawaz Sharif truly navigate the uphill road? WION spoke to Sharat Sabharwal, former Indian ambassador to Pakistan, to gain insights into the potential implications of a government led by Nawaz Sharif for Pakistan. "The 2024 Pakistan parliamentary election is a mirror image of the 2018 poll, in the sense that Imran Khan was the spirit then and Nawaz Sharif was hated, and that has gotten reversed now. 2018 was a managed and fixed election, and 2024 is also the same," Ambassador Sabharwal told WION. Nawaz Sharif returned to Pakistan from his exile in London, purportedly as part of an agreement with the military, as per several reports. This is also evident from the sudden termination of many legal proceedings against him. Asked about what a Sharif-led government would entail, Ambassador Sabharwal said his instincts were good on relations with India. "He realises the economic burden of Pakistan and also sees stabilising relations with India as a way of cutting the salience of the Army in the Pakistani polity." "But his ability to deliver will depend on the army's will," he noted. Additionally, the PML-N has vowed to finalise a $10 billion oil refinery deal with Saudi Arabia, diversify refining sources, and advance the Main Line 1 rail project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Ambassador Sabharwal noted that while these initiatives may initially stimulate economic growth, they also contribute to the country's debt burden in the long run. Meanwhile, the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), led by former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, has pledged to double per capita income within five years and provide free electricity to underprivileged families for up to 300 kilowatt-hours. However, neither party has elaborated on their strategies for achieving these goals. Also read | Pakistan Elections 2024: Will Imran Khan bowl out army from prison? While observers acknowledge the necessity of forming a government in Pakistan, they are also aware of the military's influence in orchestrating elections and selecting leaders. Analysts suggest that Pakistan will require immediate financial assistance from international allies in the near future. The country currently has an active bailout arrangement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) valued at approximately $3bn, albeit with stringent conditions including budgetary adjustments and increased fuel prices. "There are no short-term solutions. Pakistan will have to negotiate more loans from the IMF for debt restructuring. It will have to take some tough decisions, which will cause a lot of economic pain to the poor," Prof Ajay Darshan Behera, Academy of International Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, told WION. In addition to concerns regarding fairness, the electoral process is also endangered by the spectre of violence. The most recent incident occurred early on Monday (Feb 5), when militants in the northwest region of the country killed at least 10 police officers, adding to a series of attacks. "The issue of terrorism has not received adequate media attention due to the political instability in the country since April 2022. The reality is incidents of terrorism have grown significantly in the bordering regions of Afghanistan and Balochistan since the Taliban takeover of power in August 2021. The establishment is determined to go ahead with the scheduled elections. Still, we may likely see a spurt in the incidents of terrorism in the political uncertainties of the transfer of power," noted Prof Behera. Now, it all hinges on the military's approval and the extent to which they permit any sitting prime minister to act.

Data lab | Pak economy has been in the red for decades. Can Nawaz Sharif engineer a turnaround?

As Pakistan goes to vote on February 8, democracy in the country becomes a war zone. The battle lines are clear. On one side is Imran Khan, who has been slapped with a third jail sentence in a week, on the other hand is the powerful army, which is hell-bent on stopping the popular PTI leader, from returning to power. How will the people respond? How far will the Pakistani military go to rig the polls?

Gravitas | Pak Elections: Army cheats to stop Imran Khan's return

Former Pak PM Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi, have been sentenced to 7 years in prison and been fined after a Court ruled their 2018 marriage 'illegal.' The couple have each been fined 500,000 rupees, which is $1,800.

Gravitas: Imran Khan, Bushra get 7-year jail term for 'un-Islamic marriage'

As the countdown to Pakistan elections begins, PPP and PLM-N carry out mass rallies to woo voters, while PTI continues to fight police crackdown. Are the upcoming polls going to be a battle between Bhutto and Sharif?

Pakistan: Imran Khan factor in Pakistan elections | Can Imran Khan come back?

Cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan was sentenced to 10 years in prison, 14 years in prison, and 7 years in prison in three separate cases. The former Prime Minister has asked his supporters to 'take revenge for every injustice' with their vote on Feb 8.

Pakistan: Imran Khan factor in Pak elections, PTI uses AI to sidestep nationwide

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