Pakistan's senate passed a resolution on Friday (Jan 5) to delay the South Asian country's national elections slated for February 8. While the resolution is non-binding since the senate forms just one&nbsp;of the organs of the Pakistani parliament, the spotlight is back on the attempts to delay the elections that should have been held months back. Pakistan's last national elections were held in 2018 when the Members of the National Assembly (MNA) were elected for a five-year tenure.&nbsp;

The resolution came days after Pakistan's only World Cup-winning former cricket captain-turned-politician Imran&nbsp;Khan's&nbsp;Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lost cricket bat&nbsp;as its election symbol after Pakistan's election commission deemed its&nbsp;intra-party polls 'unconstitutional'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-imran-khans-party-says-loss-of-election-symbol-part-of-london-plan-672811">Pakistan: Imran Khan’s party says loss of election symbol part of 'London plan'</a>

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 backward 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 had been identified with the cricket bat across Pakistan.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khans-election-nomination-rejected-from-two-constituencies-675068">Pakistan: Imran Khan’s election nomination rejected from two constituencies</a>

At the end of 2023, Khan's nomination was rejected from the two National Assembly constituencies in Mianwali and Lahore. His fate on a third national assembly seat currently remains inconclusive.&nbsp;

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>

But even if Khan can contest elections, he remains&nbsp;formally disqualified from holding public office until 2028.&nbsp;

<h2>Between 2018 and 2024: Who held Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office</h2>

In July 2018, Imran Khan's PTI&nbsp;won the most seats in Pakistan's National Assembly. Khan managed to forge an alliance that kept him in power until April 2022, when he&nbsp;lost a&nbsp;vote of no confidence in the parliament. The PTI leader&nbsp;blamed the military and the United States for plotting to remove him.

After Imran Khan's ouster from power, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader Shehbaz Sharif, the brother of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was chosen as leader of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), an alliance chiefly consisting of the PML-N and Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party. Shehbaz Sharif served as Pakistani prime minister between April 2022 and August 2023.&nbsp;

In between, the ousted Pakistani leader&nbsp;Imran Khan called for snap elections as he deemed his ouster 'illegal'.&nbsp;

In January 2023, Khan got the provincial&nbsp;assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces&nbsp;dissolved in a bid to force nationwide snap elections. This coincided with a devastating economic crisis that Pakistan faced amid attempts by Shehbaz Sharif's administration to secure a loan tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).&nbsp;

A dozen&nbsp;cases and an assassination attempt later, in May 2023,&nbsp;hours after Imran Khan was&nbsp;arrested&nbsp;from a courtroom in the capital Islamabad, his supporters pushed through the gates of army headquarters in Rawalpindi. The violent attack in Rawalpindi,&nbsp;long deemed the real nucleus of power in Pakistan behind the semblance of democracy that exists in the capital Islamabad, expanded the political instability in the nation. Khan's supporters continued to call for early elections.&nbsp;

Imran Khan was sentenced to three years&nbsp;in prison in August 2023&nbsp;after being convicted of selling state gifts when he was prime minister.

In August 2023,&nbsp;Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned-politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, became&nbsp;Pakistan's caretaker prime minister after the National Assembly was dissolved.

Kakar, Pakistan's 24th&nbsp;prime minister since the country's existence in 1947, heads the Balochistan Awami Party formed in 2018. According to Pakistani law, the elections should have been held within 90 days of the dissolution of the National Assembly. The elections by that timeline should have been held in October 2023.&nbsp;

But in October 2023, Nawaz Sharif returned from his self-imposed exile in London after four years, and secured bail on corruption cases he was facing convictions in. Sharif, a four-time prime minister of Pakistan, will now reportedly contest the February elections.

The elections now stand&nbsp;postponed to February due to the re-demarcation of constituencies following a new census.

Amidst fears from political analysts that an extended period without an elected government could lead to military consolidation, the continued attempts to postpone Pakistani elections raise concerns about the balance of power in a nation where the military has remained the real power behind Pakistan's Prime Minister Office.

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Elections 2024: Election panel faces flak ahead of polls

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For the elections slated in February, Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), assassinated former Pakistani PM Benazir Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party and Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) are the top contenders.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's senate passed a resolution on Friday (Jan 5) to delay the South Asian country's national elections slated for February 8. While the resolution is non-binding since the senate forms just one of the organs of the Pakistani parliament, the spotlight is back on the attempts to delay the elections that should have been held months back.

Pakistan's senate passed a resolution on Friday (Jan 5) to delay the South Asian country's national elections slated for February 8. While the resolution is non-binding since the senate forms just one of the organs of the Pakistani parliament, the spotlight is back on the attempts to delay the elections that should have been held months back. Pakistan's last national elections were held in 2018 when the Members of the National Assembly (MNA) were elected for a five-year tenure. The resolution came days after Pakistan's only World Cup-winning former cricket captain-turned-politician Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lost cricket bat as its election symbol after Pakistan's election commission deemed its intra-party polls 'unconstitutional'. Also read | Pakistan: Imran Khan’s party says loss of election symbol part of 'London plan' 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 backward 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 had been identified with the cricket bat across Pakistan. Also read | Pakistan: Imran Khan’s election nomination rejected from two constituencies At the end of 2023, Khan's nomination was rejected from the two National Assembly constituencies in Mianwali and Lahore. His fate on a third national assembly seat currently remains inconclusive. Also read | Endgame for Imran Khan as Pakistan's election commission bars him from politics till 2028 But even if Khan can contest elections, he remains formally disqualified from holding public office until 2028. Between 2018 and 2024: Who held Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office In July 2018, Imran Khan's PTI won the most seats in Pakistan's National Assembly. Khan managed to forge an alliance that kept him in power until April 2022, when he lost a vote of no confidence in the parliament. The PTI leader blamed the military and the United States for plotting to remove him. After Imran Khan's ouster from power, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader Shehbaz Sharif, the brother of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was chosen as leader of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), an alliance chiefly consisting of the PML-N and Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party. Shehbaz Sharif served as Pakistani prime minister between April 2022 and August 2023. In between, the ousted Pakistani leader Imran Khan called for snap elections as he deemed his ouster 'illegal'. In January 2023, Khan got the provincial assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces dissolved in a bid to force nationwide snap elections. This coincided with a devastating economic crisis that Pakistan faced amid attempts by Shehbaz Sharif's administration to secure a loan tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). A dozen cases and an assassination attempt later, in May 2023, hours after Imran Khan was arrested from a courtroom in the capital Islamabad, his supporters pushed through the gates of army headquarters in Rawalpindi. The violent attack in Rawalpindi, long deemed the real nucleus of power in Pakistan behind the semblance of democracy that exists in the capital Islamabad, expanded the political instability in the nation. Khan's supporters continued to call for early elections. Imran Khan was sentenced to three years in prison in August 2023 after being convicted of selling state gifts when he was prime minister. In August 2023, Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned-politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, became Pakistan's caretaker prime minister after the National Assembly was dissolved. Kakar, Pakistan's 24th prime minister since the country's existence in 1947, heads the Balochistan Awami Party formed in 2018. According to Pakistani law, the elections should have been held within 90 days of the dissolution of the National Assembly. The elections by that timeline should have been held in October 2023. But in October 2023, Nawaz Sharif returned from his self-imposed exile in London after four years, and secured bail on corruption cases he was facing convictions in. Sharif, a four-time prime minister of Pakistan, will now reportedly contest the February elections. The elections now stand postponed to February due to the re-demarcation of constituencies following a new census. Amidst fears from political analysts that an extended period without an elected government could lead to military consolidation, the continued attempts to postpone Pakistani elections raise concerns about the balance of power in a nation where the military has remained the real power behind Pakistan's Prime Minister Office. Watch | Pakistan Elections 2024: Election panel faces flak ahead of polls × For the elections slated in February, Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), assassinated former Pakistani PM Benazir Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party and Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) are the top contenders. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Why Pakistan’s national elections remain a delayed affair

The Pakistan Tehreek-E-Insaf party has approached the Supreme Court in a last-ditch bid to save its bat symbol. This, after the Peshawar high court restored the ECP'S order stripping the party of its electoral symbol for the upcoming election. The Lahore high court has also dismissed PTI'S plea challenging the electoral watchdog's decision.

Pakistan: PTI battling for its electoral 'bat' symbol

Pakistan's former World Cup-winning captain, Imran Khan, once again finds himself on a treacherous pitch – Pakistan's political minefield. Imran is battered &amp; bruised but more than his opponent it's the umpire in the political arena, the Pakistan military, which is determined to ensure he returns to the pavilion and is consigned to oblivion even before the first ball is bowled.

Much like a batsman stripped of his prized blade, Khan's party, the Tehreek-I-Insaf (PTI), has been dealt a crippling blow – the loss of its iconic electoral symbol, the cricket bat. His unending legal woes and facing the wrath of the military have vanquished him ahead of his most important political innings.

Khan's dismissal from power in April 2023 felt like a cruel LBW decision, one he vehemently challenged, alleging the Pakistani military establishment had orchestrated his removal. But like the umpire, the most important establishment in the South Asian nation had made up its mind. They want the skipper to retire, but the fighting spirit of Imran is refusing him to take the final bow.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/relief-for-imran-khans-party-peshawar-high-court-restores-ptis-bat-election-symbol-673753">Relief for Imran Khan’s party: Peshawar High Court restores PTI’s ‘bat’ election symbol</a>

The 'caught behind' narrative, of a puppet government and a corrupt elite, fuelled Imran Khan's fiery speeches and rallies, resonating deeply with many Pakistanis, especially the youth. He rose to power vowing to play a 'clean game' and put the country on the world map. The Pakistani public believed in Imran Khan as the captain who could bring glory to the nation as he did by lifting the World Cup in 1992. His all-rounder performance on the cricket field is lacquered into immortality with his charisma.

But for the enigmatic all-rounder, the second and the most crucial innings of his political career is proving to be a non-starter. His teammates have been forced to retire hurt. Most PTI leaders have either quit or are behind bars.&nbsp;

The 'Kaptaan' is facing a barrage of legal cases, over 100 in total, ranging from corruption charges to selling state gifts to revealing state secrets. The general elections are only a month away, but Imran remains behind bars and is hopping from one court to another without any hope of release from prison.

Imran Khan is barred from contesting elections due to the conviction in corruption cases and now his party PTI's iconic bat symbol has been snatched. The election commission ruled the party's internal elections null and void, effectively taking the bat out of his hands. This symbol, a potent reminder of Khan's past cricketing glory and populist appeal, was a key driver of voter mobilisation.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-in-2023-imran-khans-arrest-return-of-nawaz-sharif-and-baloch-uprising-672947">Imran Khan's arrest to Nawaz Sharif's return and Baloch uprising, events that shook Pakistan in 2023</a>

Imran Khan promised 'Naya Pakistan' but the old guard has effectively dislodged his bails. His downfall started when he decided to cross paths with the all-powerful Pakistani army, which not so long ago blessed him with power. His public criticism and accusations of interference by the men in yellowish khaki (Pakistan army uniform) were crossing the Rubicon.

Imran was a crafty bowler in his heyday. He knew the strengths &amp; weaknesses of his opponents. But on the political pitch, he made the cardinal sin of underestimating the absolute power of the military. From General Ayub Khan in 1958 to General Zia ul Haq in 1977 to General Pervez Musharraf in 1999, Pakistan has spent several decades under military dictators. In between the civilian government bides its time by abiding by the diktats from Rawalpindi.&nbsp;

The former Pakistan Prime Minister has an albatross around his neck. The Pakistani army is not known to keep any prisoners and the riot act has been read. However, like die-hard cricket fans, many Pakistanis still believe in the fighting spirit of Imran which enabled him to conquer the 22 yards. Imran has provided Pakistan with its most memorable sporting glory by claiming the last wicket in the final over to secure their first-ever World Cup victory. But politics is a different ball game.&nbsp;

Pakistan's former World Cup-winning captain, Imran Khan, once again finds himself on a treacherous pitch – Pakistan's political minefield. Imran is battered & bruised but more than his opponent it's the umpire in the political arena, the Pakistan military, which is determined to ensure he returns to the pavilion and is consigned to oblivion even before the first ball is bowled.

Pakistan's former World Cup-winning captain, Imran Khan, once again finds himself on a treacherous pitch – Pakistan's political minefield. Imran is battered & bruised but more than his opponent it's the umpire in the political arena, the Pakistan military, which is determined to ensure he returns to the pavilion and is consigned to oblivion even before the first ball is bowled. Much like a batsman stripped of his prized blade, Khan's party, the Tehreek-I-Insaf (PTI), has been dealt a crippling blow – the loss of its iconic electoral symbol, the cricket bat. His unending legal woes and facing the wrath of the military have vanquished him ahead of his most important political innings. Khan's dismissal from power in April 2023 felt like a cruel LBW decision, one he vehemently challenged, alleging the Pakistani military establishment had orchestrated his removal. But like the umpire, the most important establishment in the South Asian nation had made up its mind. They want the skipper to retire, but the fighting spirit of Imran is refusing him to take the final bow. Also read: Relief for Imran Khan’s party: Peshawar High Court restores PTI’s ‘bat’ election symbol The 'caught behind' narrative, of a puppet government and a corrupt elite, fuelled Imran Khan's fiery speeches and rallies, resonating deeply with many Pakistanis, especially the youth. He rose to power vowing to play a 'clean game' and put the country on the world map. The Pakistani public believed in Imran Khan as the captain who could bring glory to the nation as he did by lifting the World Cup in 1992. His all-rounder performance on the cricket field is lacquered into immortality with his charisma. But for the enigmatic all-rounder, the second and the most crucial innings of his political career is proving to be a non-starter. His teammates have been forced to retire hurt. Most PTI leaders have either quit or are behind bars. The 'Kaptaan' is facing a barrage of legal cases, over 100 in total, ranging from corruption charges to selling state gifts to revealing state secrets. The general elections are only a month away, but Imran remains behind bars and is hopping from one court to another without any hope of release from prison. Imran Khan is barred from contesting elections due to the conviction in corruption cases and now his party PTI's iconic bat symbol has been snatched. The election commission ruled the party's internal elections null and void, effectively taking the bat out of his hands. This symbol, a potent reminder of Khan's past cricketing glory and populist appeal, was a key driver of voter mobilisation. Also read: Imran Khan's arrest to Nawaz Sharif's return and Baloch uprising, events that shook Pakistan in 2023 Imran Khan promised 'Naya Pakistan' but the old guard has effectively dislodged his bails. His downfall started when he decided to cross paths with the all-powerful Pakistani army, which not so long ago blessed him with power. His public criticism and accusations of interference by the men in yellowish khaki (Pakistan army uniform) were crossing the Rubicon. Imran was a crafty bowler in his heyday. He knew the strengths & weaknesses of his opponents. But on the political pitch, he made the cardinal sin of underestimating the absolute power of the military. From General Ayub Khan in 1958 to General Zia ul Haq in 1977 to General Pervez Musharraf in 1999, Pakistan has spent several decades under military dictators. In between the civilian government bides its time by abiding by the diktats from Rawalpindi. The former Pakistan Prime Minister has an albatross around his neck. The Pakistani army is not known to keep any prisoners and the riot act has been read. However, like die-hard cricket fans, many Pakistanis still believe in the fighting spirit of Imran which enabled him to conquer the 22 yards. Imran has provided Pakistan with its most memorable sporting glory by claiming the last wicket in the final over to secure their first-ever World Cup victory. But politics is a different ball game.

Imran Khan forced to play without his 'bat'

Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers have been accepted by the Election Commission despite questions on his eligibility to contest the February 8 general elections in the wake of 'life-long disqualification' by the apex court.

"PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers for NA-130 (National Assembly seat from Lahore) have been accepted by the Election Commission," Sharif's lawyer Amjad Pervez told reporters on Tuesday.

He said no objections to 73-year-old Sharif's candidature have been raised.

"Nawaz Sharif will now contest both from Lahore and Mansahra city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," he said. 
 
When asked whether Sharif was disqualified to contest polls for life time, Pervez said: "Sharif's disqualification has ended after his acquittal in corruption references against him."

All the leadership of the Sharif family -- Sharif, his younger brother Shehbaz Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and nephew Hamza Shehbaz -- are mainly contesting from Lahore.

Gravitas: Pakistan's 'drug drones' infiltrate india

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After his return to the country this October from London where he spent four years in self-exile on medical grounds, Sharif was acquitted in two major corruption cases — Avenfield Apartments and Al-Azizia Steel Mills — by the Islamabad High Court.

Barrister Zafarullah Khan said that Sharif can contest elections, citing an amendment to the Elections Act by the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement-led government. That amendment to Section 232 of the Elections Act caps disqualifications at five years.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-bilawal-bhutto-zardari-announces-his-candidacy-for-prime-ministership-674073">Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto</a>

According to senior lawyer Raja Inam Ameen Minhas, the amended law cannot benefit Sharif since the legislature did not amend Section 232 retrospectively. He said since the amendment entails penal consequences, it cannot deal with the matter in the past.

"The law that deals with punishment cannot be applied retrospectively unless the legislature categorically gives this effect. The Supreme Court's 2018 ruling says disqualification under Article 62(1f) of the Constitution is lifelong. This ruling directly impacts Nawaz Sharif, who was disqualified under this provision," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/relief-for-imran-khans-party-peshawar-high-court-restores-ptis-bat-election-symbol-673753">Relief for Imran Khan’s party: Peshawar High Court restores PTI’s ‘bat’ election symbol</a>

Another senior lawyer Kashif Ali Malik said that the lifelong interpretation in the Elections Act cannot interpret, override or defeat constitutional provisions.

Sharif, the only Pakistani politician who became the prime minister of the coup-prone country for a record three times, has been receiving PM-designate protocol with the blessings of the military.

Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's party alleges that under the 'London Plan' Sharif will be made the Prime Minister following the February 8 polls with the blessing of the military establishment under Army Chief Gen Asim Munir.

Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers have been accepted by the Election Commission despite questions on his eligibility to contest the February 8 general elections in the wake of 'life-long disqualification' by the apex court.

Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers have been accepted by the Election Commission despite questions on his eligibility to contest the February 8 general elections in the wake of 'life-long disqualification' by the apex court. "PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers for NA-130 (National Assembly seat from Lahore) have been accepted by the Election Commission," Sharif's lawyer Amjad Pervez told reporters on Tuesday. He said no objections to 73-year-old Sharif's candidature have been raised. "Nawaz Sharif will now contest both from Lahore and Mansahra city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," he said. When asked whether Sharif was disqualified to contest polls for life time, Pervez said: "Sharif's disqualification has ended after his acquittal in corruption references against him." All the leadership of the Sharif family -- Sharif, his younger brother Shehbaz Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and nephew Hamza Shehbaz -- are mainly contesting from Lahore. Gravitas: Pakistan's 'drug drones' infiltrate india × After his return to the country this October from London where he spent four years in self-exile on medical grounds, Sharif was acquitted in two major corruption cases — Avenfield Apartments and Al-Azizia Steel Mills — by the Islamabad High Court. Barrister Zafarullah Khan said that Sharif can contest elections, citing an amendment to the Elections Act by the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement-led government. That amendment to Section 232 of the Elections Act caps disqualifications at five years. Also Read | Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto According to senior lawyer Raja Inam Ameen Minhas, the amended law cannot benefit Sharif since the legislature did not amend Section 232 retrospectively. He said since the amendment entails penal consequences, it cannot deal with the matter in the past. "The law that deals with punishment cannot be applied retrospectively unless the legislature categorically gives this effect. The Supreme Court's 2018 ruling says disqualification under Article 62(1f) of the Constitution is lifelong. This ruling directly impacts Nawaz Sharif, who was disqualified under this provision," he said. Also Read | Relief for Imran Khan’s party: Peshawar High Court restores PTI’s ‘bat’ election symbol Another senior lawyer Kashif Ali Malik said that the lifelong interpretation in the Elections Act cannot interpret, override or defeat constitutional provisions. Sharif, the only Pakistani politician who became the prime minister of the coup-prone country for a record three times, has been receiving PM-designate protocol with the blessings of the military. Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's party alleges that under the 'London Plan' Sharif will be made the Prime Minister following the February 8 polls with the blessing of the military establishment under Army Chief Gen Asim Munir.

Pakistan’s election body accepts Nawaz Sharif’s nomination papers for NA-130 Lahore

Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari announces 10 10-pointer party manifesto for 8th Feb 2024 elections during a party gathering at Garhi Khuda Bux. Bilawal Bhutto announces candidacy for Prime Ministerhip subject to his party’s Central Executive Committee’s approval.

PPP'S Bilawal Bhutto Zardari announces candidature for Pak PM

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) and son of parents who both have&nbsp;assumed&nbsp;Pakistan's top offices in past, announced his candidacy for prime ministership of the South Asian nation on Wednesday (Dec 27). PPP has already announced that Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari would be its PM candidate and Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari will be the presidential nominee in elections which are due to be held on February.

Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari is former Pakistan president who served between 2008 and 2013. Bilawal's mother, the late Benazir Bhutto held the prime ministerial post twice.

Watch | Pakistan: Former minister Mahmood Qureshi rearrested under GHQ attack case

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Bhutto-Zardari has said that he would be the PM candidate subject to PPP's Central Executive Committee’s approval, but this will be a mere formality given the party's announcement earlier this month.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-successfully-tests-fatah-ii-guided-multi-launch-rocket-system-674025">Pakistan successfully tests Fatah-II guided multi-launch rocket system</a>

Pakistan has a multi-party system and the prime ministership is decided based on which party gets more number of seats in the parliament, but announcement of a prime-ministerial candidate often helps project an image of the party in the run up to the elections.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-police-manhandle-drag-and-detain-ex-pak-fm-qureshi-even-after-sc-grants-bail-673977">Police manhandle, drag and detain ex-Pakistan FM Qureshi after SC grants bail</a>

On Wednesday, the death anniversary of his mother Benazir, Bilawal addressed a gathering in Garhi Khuda Baksh where members of his family, including his mother,&nbsp;are buried.

He presented his party's election agenda. Here are the promises he made in agenda&nbsp;as reported in Pakistani media:

<ul>
	<li>If elected, Bhutto-Zardari said that his government would ensure salaries are doubled within five years.</li>
	<li>People in poorer sections of the society will get 300 units of free solar energy. Each district in the country will have green energy parks.</li>
	<li>Bilawal has promised free healthcare for everyone in Pakistan</li>
	<li>The manifesto says three million houses will be built for the poor and those affected by floods.</li>
	<li>PPP has promised education for all. Bilawal said that his government will roll out projects to better educate the masses.</li>
	<li>His government would increase the scope of Benazir Income Support Programme and will introduce more welfare schemes.</li>
	<li>For farmers a 'Hari Card' will be issued.</li>
	<li>The government will enhance support for people who work as labourers with the help of Benazir Mazdoor Card.</li>
	<li>For unemployed youth, there will be 'Youth Card' and also a 'Youth Markaz'</li>
	<li>To eradicate hunger in the country, the government will embark on ‘Bhook Mitao Programme’</li>
</ul>

(With inputs from agencies)

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) and son of parents who both have assumed Pakistan's top offices in past, announced his candidacy for prime ministership of the South Asian nation on Wednesday (Dec 27).

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) and son of parents who both have assumed Pakistan's top offices in past, announced his candidacy for prime ministership of the South Asian nation on Wednesday (Dec 27). PPP has already announced that Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari would be its PM candidate and Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari will be the presidential nominee in elections which are due to be held on February. Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari is former Pakistan president who served between 2008 and 2013. Bilawal's mother, the late Benazir Bhutto held the prime ministerial post twice. Watch | Pakistan: Former minister Mahmood Qureshi rearrested under GHQ attack case × Bhutto-Zardari has said that he would be the PM candidate subject to PPP's Central Executive Committee’s approval, but this will be a mere formality given the party's announcement earlier this month. Also Read | Pakistan successfully tests Fatah-II guided multi-launch rocket system Pakistan has a multi-party system and the prime ministership is decided based on which party gets more number of seats in the parliament, but announcement of a prime-ministerial candidate often helps project an image of the party in the run up to the elections. Also Read | Police manhandle, drag and detain ex-Pakistan FM Qureshi after SC grants bail On Wednesday, the death anniversary of his mother Benazir, Bilawal addressed a gathering in Garhi Khuda Baksh where members of his family, including his mother, are buried. He presented his party's election agenda. Here are the promises he made in agenda as reported in Pakistani media: If elected, Bhutto-Zardari said that his government would ensure salaries are doubled within five years. People in poorer sections of the society will get 300 units of free solar energy. Each district in the country will have green energy parks. Bilawal has promised free healthcare for everyone in Pakistan The manifesto says three million houses will be built for the poor and those affected by floods. PPP has promised education for all. Bilawal said that his government will roll out projects to better educate the masses. His government would increase the scope of Benazir Income Support Programme and will introduce more welfare schemes. For farmers a 'Hari Card' will be issued. The government will enhance support for people who work as labourers with the help of Benazir Mazdoor Card. For unemployed youth, there will be 'Youth Card' and also a 'Youth Markaz' To eradicate hunger in the country, the government will embark on ‘Bhook Mitao Programme’ (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto

In a historic development in Pakistan politics, a Hindu woman named Saveera Parkash from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region filed her nomination for a general seat in the country’s upcoming polls that are scheduled to take place next year.&nbsp;

Parkash, who is from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reportedly filed nomination papers for the general seat of PK-25 in the Buner district.&nbsp;

Filing her nomination on a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) ticket, Parkash is optimistic about contesting the elections scheduled to take place on February 8, 2024, to elect the members of the 16th National Assembly,

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mumbai-2611-terror-attacks-mastermind-hafiz-saeeds-party-to-contest-polls-in-pakistan-673431">Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed's party to contest polls in Pakistan</a>

A report by the Pakistani newspaper Dawn, on Monday (Dec 25), citing local politician Saleem Khan, who is affiliated with the Qaumi Watan Party said Parkash is the first woman from Buner to have submitted her nomination papers to contest the upcoming elections from the general seat.

<h2>Who is Saveera Parkash?</h2>

Saveera told Dawn that she is following in her father’s footsteps Oam Prakash, a retired doctor and dedicated PPP member for the past 35 years.&nbsp;

Parkash, general secretary of the PPP women’s wing in Buner, completed her MBBS from the Abbottabad International Medical College last year. &nbsp;

In an interview with the Pakistani media outlet, Prakash said that she filed her nomination on December 23 and also spoke about her commitment to the welfare of the community.&nbsp;

Parkash said that she wants to work for the welfare of women in the area, ensure a safe space for them and help them attain their rights.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistan-pm-imran-khans-party-to-approach-high-court-against-flawed-verdict-from-polls-watchdog-673495">Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's party to approach high court against 'flawed' verdict from polls watchdog</a>

During the interview with Dawn, Parkash highlighted the historic neglect and suppression of women in the development sector. If endorsed by the PPP leadership she would be the first woman from Buner to contest elections on a general seat.&nbsp;

When asked about the party giving her a ticket, Parkash said that she hoped she would get one as the “senior leadership” had requested her father to let her run for the general seat. She also expressed hope that&nbsp;PPP would endorse her candidature.

She said “serving humanity is in my blood” due to her medical background, but her aspiration to become an elected official stems from having experienced poor management and helplessness in government hospitals as a doctor.

A social media influencer from Buner, Imran Noshad Khan expressed his wholehearted endorsement of Saveera Parkash, irrespective of her political affiliation, reported Dawn.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/security-nightmare-in-pakistan-country-reports-highest-instances-of-suicide-attacks-since-2014-673296">Security nightmare in Pakistan? Country reports highest instances of suicide attacks since 2014</a>

Parkash is “breaking stereotypes perpetuated by traditional patriarchy,” Khan told the Pakistani media outlet which was necessary to recognise.&nbsp;

It took 55 years “since Buner merged with Pakistan for a woman to step forward and contest in elections,” said the social media influencer.&nbsp;

According to recent amendments by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), a five per cent inclusion of women candidates is mandatory on general seats.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a historic development in Pakistan politics, a Hindu woman named Saveera Parkash from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region filed her nomination for a general seat in the country’s upcoming polls that are scheduled to take place next year.

In a historic development in Pakistan politics, a Hindu woman named Saveera Parkash from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region filed her nomination for a general seat in the country’s upcoming polls that are scheduled to take place next year. Parkash, who is from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reportedly filed nomination papers for the general seat of PK-25 in the Buner district. Filing her nomination on a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) ticket, Parkash is optimistic about contesting the elections scheduled to take place on February 8, 2024, to elect the members of the 16th National Assembly, ALSO READ | Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed's party to contest polls in Pakistan A report by the Pakistani newspaper Dawn, on Monday (Dec 25), citing local politician Saleem Khan, who is affiliated with the Qaumi Watan Party said Parkash is the first woman from Buner to have submitted her nomination papers to contest the upcoming elections from the general seat. Who is Saveera Parkash? Saveera told Dawn that she is following in her father’s footsteps Oam Prakash, a retired doctor and dedicated PPP member for the past 35 years. Parkash, general secretary of the PPP women’s wing in Buner, completed her MBBS from the Abbottabad International Medical College last year. In an interview with the Pakistani media outlet, Prakash said that she filed her nomination on December 23 and also spoke about her commitment to the welfare of the community. Parkash said that she wants to work for the welfare of women in the area, ensure a safe space for them and help them attain their rights. ALSO READ | Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's party to approach high court against 'flawed' verdict from polls watchdog During the interview with Dawn, Parkash highlighted the historic neglect and suppression of women in the development sector. If endorsed by the PPP leadership she would be the first woman from Buner to contest elections on a general seat. When asked about the party giving her a ticket, Parkash said that she hoped she would get one as the “senior leadership” had requested her father to let her run for the general seat. She also expressed hope that PPP would endorse her candidature. She said “serving humanity is in my blood” due to her medical background, but her aspiration to become an elected official stems from having experienced poor management and helplessness in government hospitals as a doctor. A social media influencer from Buner, Imran Noshad Khan expressed his wholehearted endorsement of Saveera Parkash, irrespective of her political affiliation, reported Dawn. ALSO READ | Security nightmare in Pakistan? Country reports highest instances of suicide attacks since 2014 Parkash is “breaking stereotypes perpetuated by traditional patriarchy,” Khan told the Pakistani media outlet which was necessary to recognise. It took 55 years “since Buner merged with Pakistan for a woman to step forward and contest in elections,” said the social media influencer. According to recent amendments by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), a five per cent inclusion of women candidates is mandatory on general seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Saveera Parkash: In a first, Hindu woman files nomination for Pakistan’s 2024 general elections

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday (Dec 22) declared the intra-party elections of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as 'unconstitutional'. The election commission of India's western neighbour in South Asia also&nbsp;revoked PTI's claim on its 'bat' electoral symbol, ahead of the general elections scheduled on February.

The development comes weeks after the Election Commission of Pakistan had warned PTI to hold intra-party polls within three weeks or it will lose its electoral symbol.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-admits-losing-cipher-during-interrogation-by-fia-in-attock-jail-629664">Imran Khan admits losing cipher during interrogation by FIA in Attock jail</a>

"It is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated 23rd November, 2023 and failed to hold intra-party election in accordance with PTI prevailing Constitution, 2019 and Election Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017," the ECP said in its 11-page order.

The ECP also rejected a certificate and form by newly-appointed party chairman Gohar Khan who replaced&nbsp; Imran Khan as PTI chief. It also&nbsp;declared the PTI ineligible to obtain an electoral symbol under the Elections Act, 2017.

It said that PTI never submitted any record of any competent authority to exercise the intra-party elections.

<h2>PTI says it's 'part of the famous London plan'</h2>

Reacting to the ECP's order, the PTI called the decision a "part of the famous London plan" and a "disgusting and shameful attempt to stop PTI" from participating in the general elections, in a purported reference to the alleged collusion between former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Pakistani deep state. Sharif, before his return to Pakistan in October, was stationed in London since 2019.&nbsp;

"The Election Commission of Pakistan has tried to destroy the constitution, democracy and transparency of elections in the country through its decision...This biased and biased decision of the Commission cannot stand in its place and we will challenge it before the Supreme Court," said the party on X.

<h2>No 'bat' for Imran Khan's party: What does it mean?</h2>

Pakistan is a country with&nbsp;one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia. Some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province are particularly backward 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;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-bat-for-imran-khan-pakistans-election-commission-may-take-away-ptis-electoral-symbol-662157">No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol</a>

In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, forged a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;

The loss of the bat may very well translate into a loss of identity for embattled Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday (Dec 22) declared the intra-party elections of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as 'unconstitutional'.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday (Dec 22) declared the intra-party elections of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as 'unconstitutional'. The election commission of India's western neighbour in South Asia also revoked PTI's claim on its 'bat' electoral symbol, ahead of the general elections scheduled on February. The development comes weeks after the Election Commission of Pakistan had warned PTI to hold intra-party polls within three weeks or it will lose its electoral symbol. Also read | Imran Khan admits losing cipher during interrogation by FIA in Attock jail "It is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated 23rd November, 2023 and failed to hold intra-party election in accordance with PTI prevailing Constitution, 2019 and Election Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017," the ECP said in its 11-page order. The ECP also rejected a certificate and form by newly-appointed party chairman Gohar Khan who replaced Imran Khan as PTI chief. It also declared the PTI ineligible to obtain an electoral symbol under the Elections Act, 2017. It said that PTI never submitted any record of any competent authority to exercise the intra-party elections. PTI says it's 'part of the famous London plan' Reacting to the ECP's order, the PTI called the decision a "part of the famous London plan" and a "disgusting and shameful attempt to stop PTI" from participating in the general elections, in a purported reference to the alleged collusion between former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Pakistani deep state. Sharif, before his return to Pakistan in October, was stationed in London since 2019. "The Election Commission of Pakistan has tried to destroy the constitution, democracy and transparency of elections in the country through its decision...This biased and biased decision of the Commission cannot stand in its place and we will challenge it before the Supreme Court," said the party on X. No 'bat' for Imran Khan's party: What does it mean? Pakistan is a country with one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia. Some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province are particularly backward 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. Also read | No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, forged a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office. The loss of the bat may very well translate into a loss of identity for embattled Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Imran Khan’s party says loss of election symbol part of ‘London plan’

India's growth story has become a poll pitch as Pakistan heads to election season. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has lauded India's economic progress for two days in a row. During a public address, Sharif said that India had reached the moon, while Pakistan was yet to rise from the ground.

Gravitas: Nawaz Sharif lauds India again | India becomes pitch for progress in Pak polls

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has made a massive charge at the Pakistani military. He has blamed the military for the country's economic problems. In a recent address, Sharif said that neither India nor the U.S. are responsible for Pakistan's problems. 'We have shot ourselves in the foot,' he said.

Shift in Pakistan's anti-India rhetoric amidst election frenzy?

Gravitas: Nawaz Sharif's big charge at Pakistan Army | 'India not responsible for our problems'

On Tuesday, PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif cleared yet another legal hurdle ahead of the Feb 8 general election after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) acquitted him in the Al-Azizia reference. The Al-Azizia case was one of the two graft references that Nawaz was convicted in. He was acquitted in the Avenfield reference on Nov 29 by the same bench.

Pakistan: Former PM Nawaz Sharif criticise Army, says 'Pakistan shot itself in foot' | WION

Neither India nor the US was responsible for Pakistan’s economic downfall, rather “‘we shot ourselves in our own foot”, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif said, indirectly blaming the military establishment for the current situation.

The 73-year-old leader made these remarks on Tuesday (Dec 19) while addressing the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members in Islamabad, as the party gears up for the upcoming general elections in February 2024.

“Today where Pakistan has reached (in terms of the state of the economy) this is not done by India, the US or even Afghanistan. In fact, we shot ourselves in our own foot…they (a reference to the military) imposed a selected (government) on this nation by rigging the 2018 polls that led to the sufferings of the people and downfall of the economy,” Sharif, the three-time prime minister who is vying to gain power for the fourth time, said.

<h2>Sharif going soft on India?</h2>

Since returning to Pakistan in October from four years of self-imposed exile in the UK, Sharif has been making comments that seemingly reflect a softer approach towards India. It comes amidst the election frenzy in the South Asian country which has been traditionally laced with anti-India rhetoric.

The 73-year-old leader even went a step further by criticising the judges for legitimising military dictators.

“The judges garland them (military dictators) and legitimise their rule when they break the Constitution. When it comes to a prime minister the judges stamp his ouster. The judges also approve the act of dissolution of the parliament…why?” he asked.

The PML-N supremo, who was overthrown from power three times in 1993, 1999 and 2017, lashed out at former&nbsp;ISI chief Gen Faiz Hamid for engineering his ouster from power in 2017.

“A case has been opened in the Supreme Court against those (Faiz Hamid and others) who had said that if Nawaz came out of jail their two-year hard work would be wasted,” he said.

<h2>Recalls the number of times he was ousted&nbsp;</h2>

Recalling the number of times he was ousted as the PM, Nawaz said, “I was prime minister in the morning and in the evening I was declared a hijacker. Similarly in 2017, I was ousted from power for not taking salary from my son.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-ex-pm-imran-khan-starts-campaign-from-prison-using-ai-voice-clone-671331">Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan starts campaign from prison using AI voice clone</a>

“They (military establishment) made this decision as they wanted to bring their selected man into power,” he said, referring to his arch-rival Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supremo Imran Khan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-big-blow-to-china-year-long-moratorium-on-entry-of-spy-ships-671275">Sri Lanka’s big blow to China: Year-long moratorium on entry of ‘spy ships’</a>

Last week, Sharif was acquitted in the Al-Azizia Steel mill corruption case. He has already been acquitted in the Avenfield graft case in which he was convicted in July 2018 and sentenced to ten years in Jail. He also got relief in the Flagship corruption case.

Neither India nor the US was responsible for Pakistan’s economic downfall, rather “‘we shot ourselves in our own foot”, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif said, indirectly blaming the military establishment for the current situation.

Neither India nor the US was responsible for Pakistan’s economic downfall, rather “‘we shot ourselves in our own foot”, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif said, indirectly blaming the military establishment for the current situation. The 73-year-old leader made these remarks on Tuesday (Dec 19) while addressing the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members in Islamabad, as the party gears up for the upcoming general elections in February 2024. “Today where Pakistan has reached (in terms of the state of the economy) this is not done by India, the US or even Afghanistan. In fact, we shot ourselves in our own foot…they (a reference to the military) imposed a selected (government) on this nation by rigging the 2018 polls that led to the sufferings of the people and downfall of the economy,” Sharif, the three-time prime minister who is vying to gain power for the fourth time, said. Sharif going soft on India? Since returning to Pakistan in October from four years of self-imposed exile in the UK, Sharif has been making comments that seemingly reflect a softer approach towards India. It comes amidst the election frenzy in the South Asian country which has been traditionally laced with anti-India rhetoric. The 73-year-old leader even went a step further by criticising the judges for legitimising military dictators. “The judges garland them (military dictators) and legitimise their rule when they break the Constitution. When it comes to a prime minister the judges stamp his ouster. The judges also approve the act of dissolution of the parliament…why?” he asked. The PML-N supremo, who was overthrown from power three times in 1993, 1999 and 2017, lashed out at former ISI chief Gen Faiz Hamid for engineering his ouster from power in 2017. “A case has been opened in the Supreme Court against those (Faiz Hamid and others) who had said that if Nawaz came out of jail their two-year hard work would be wasted,” he said. Recalls the number of times he was ousted Recalling the number of times he was ousted as the PM, Nawaz said, “I was prime minister in the morning and in the evening I was declared a hijacker. Similarly in 2017, I was ousted from power for not taking salary from my son.” Also read | Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan starts campaign from prison using AI voice clone “They (military establishment) made this decision as they wanted to bring their selected man into power,” he said, referring to his arch-rival Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supremo Imran Khan. Also read | Sri Lanka’s big blow to China: Year-long moratorium on entry of ‘spy ships’ Last week, Sharif was acquitted in the Al-Azizia Steel mill corruption case. He has already been acquitted in the Avenfield graft case in which he was convicted in July 2018 and sentenced to ten years in Jail. He also got relief in the Flagship corruption case.

‘India not responsible for Pakistan’s economy woes’, says ex-PM Nawaz Sharif, blames army

As to the report published on Sunday , the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has forbidden the act of registering new voters and removing, editing, and correcting votes from electoral lists. Sources claim that the ECP has also stopped returning officers and other staff members from taking time off.

Pakistan's election commission bans registration, deletion, change of votes in electoral rolls

The dates for Pakistan general elections have been announced. As per reports, the upcoming elections are scheduled for 8th of February. As per sources, Pak's poll body has banned registration of new voters, deletion of votes, revision of votes and correction of votes.

Pakistan's poll body bans changes to electoral roll

Pakistan's election body issues election schedule for February 8 polls

A resolution has been introduced in the US House of Representatives - it urges Pakistan to uphold democratic institutions, human rights and the rule of law.

US House resolution urges Pakistan to uphold democratic institution

US House resolution on Pakistn democracy, to ensure human rights & rule of law | World News | WION

The election commission of Pakistan has issued a rather unique statement saying that it would be approaching the electronic media regulator incase if there is debate on delay in elections in the country. The move comes after rumours being circulated in the country that elections could perhaps be delayed under the pretext of security or as its being said Nawaz Sharif not having enough time to prepare for elections

More PTI leaders booked on terror charges| Pak poll body issues direction for media houses

With 2 months left before Pakistan goes to polls, the country's finance ministry has released election funds worth millions of dollars. But the cash-strapped nation is unable to provide even 50% of what the Pakistan Election Commission asked for.

Pakistan Elections: Finance Ministry releases fresh wave of funds

Ousted Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) replaced Khan as party head and appointed a barrister named Gohar Khan as the party chief on Saturday (Dec 2).

Imran Khan, who remains in prison since August 2023 after conviction in a corruption case, claims that the charges against him have been strategically crafted to prevent him from participating in the upcoming elections. In Pakistan, the military-intelligence nexus, dubbed as establishment, continues to remain the real power behind the semblance of democracy that emerges from Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office.

Khan has suggested that the 'establishment' ousted him at Washington's direction in April 2022, and subsequently ensured his imprisonment in the coming months.

Also read |&nbsp;<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>

Khan founded Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in 1996, four years after he became the South Asian country's only Cricket World Cup winning captain, and one of the most recognisable faces in and beyond Pakistan.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The many shades of Imran Khan

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Khan's fortunes changed dramatically in 2018 when the PTI emerged as the largest bloc in the National Assembly, catapulting him to the premiership at the purported direction of the 'establishment'.&nbsp; 
 
His tenure was cut short in April 2022 when a vote of no confidence was orchestrated by a coalition led by long-established parties.

<h2>Why change in leadership?</h2>

This leadership change came after the Election Commission of Pakistan cautioned the PTI about the potential loss of its symbol – a cricket bat – unless an internal ballot was held within the party.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-bat-for-imran-khan-pakistans-election-commission-may-take-away-ptis-electoral-symbol-662157">No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol</a>

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;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-is-pakistan-headed-after-imran-khans-arrest-towards-coup-or-civil-war-591143">Where is Pakistan headed after Imran Khan's arrest, violent protests: Towards coup or civil war?</a>

Despite being barred from standing in the party poll due to his imprisonment, Imran Khan continues to be among the most popular leaders in the country.

National elections are scheduled in Pakistan for February.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ousted Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) replaced Khan as party head and appointed a barrister named Gohar Khan as the party chief on Saturday (Dec 2).

Ousted Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) replaced Khan as party head and appointed a barrister named Gohar Khan as the party chief on Saturday (Dec 2). Imran Khan, who remains in prison since August 2023 after conviction in a corruption case, claims that the charges against him have been strategically crafted to prevent him from participating in the upcoming elections. In Pakistan, the military-intelligence nexus, dubbed as establishment, continues to remain the real power behind the semblance of democracy that emerges from Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office. Khan has suggested that the 'establishment' ousted him at Washington's direction in April 2022, and subsequently ensured his imprisonment in the coming months. Also read | Imran Khan arrest: How ISI 'angels' rule Pakistan Khan founded Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in 1996, four years after he became the South Asian country's only Cricket World Cup winning captain, and one of the most recognisable faces in and beyond Pakistan. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: The many shades of Imran Khan × Khan's fortunes changed dramatically in 2018 when the PTI emerged as the largest bloc in the National Assembly, catapulting him to the premiership at the purported direction of the 'establishment'. His tenure was cut short in April 2022 when a vote of no confidence was orchestrated by a coalition led by long-established parties. Why change in leadership? This leadership change came after the Election Commission of Pakistan cautioned the PTI about the potential loss of its symbol – a cricket bat – unless an internal ballot was held within the party. Also read | No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol 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. Also read | Where is Pakistan headed after Imran Khan's arrest, violent protests: Towards coup or civil war? Despite being barred from standing in the party poll due to his imprisonment, Imran Khan continues to be among the most popular leaders in the country. National elections are scheduled in Pakistan for February. (With inputs from agencies)

PTI lets go founder Imran Khan as party captain to save 'bat' for elections

Political dynamics are fast changing ahead of the upcoming February 2024 general elections as former Pakistani President, Asif Zardari remarks on remarks on Bilawal saying he is 'not fully trained' for politics

Pakistan: Bilawal not fully trained, says Asif Ali Zardari

Pakistan where the ground is ready for the next general elections and so are the candidates taking a dig at their rival candidates. Pakistan People's Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari recently said that the country should give a chance to someone new instead of choosing the same prime minister for the second time.

Pakistan: PTI, PPP accuses Kakkar government of bias

Pakistan's erstwhile ruling party Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) became the subject of virtual embarrassment after the results of&nbsp;a poll posted on X, (formerly Twitter) backfired. After months of deadlock over elections even after the appointment of a caretaker prime minister, Pakistan has scheduled general elections for February 8 next year.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-anwaar-ul-haq-kakar-established-as-pakistans-caretaker-pm-why-it-matters-625011">Explained | Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar established as Pakistan's caretaker PM. Why it matters</a>

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), assassinated Pakistani PM Benazir Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party and former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) are the top contenders for Islamabad's power corridors, controlled by the country's powerful military-intelligence nexus, dubbed as 'establishment'.

<h2>What was the poll on 'X' about?</h2>

The poll on 'X' posted by the PML-N digital team asked users on the platform about their preference for the 2024 general elections.

The results revealed that 81 per cent of participants voted for Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), while only 16 per cent opted for Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz).

Additionally, 2 per cent voted for Pakistan People's Party, and 1 per cent supported other political parties.

<img alt="Credit: X/@pmlndigitalpk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="38b81b4c-e2f4-47cc-ab31-1e17e195e2f3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-11-08T182745.970.png" />

Credit: X/@pmlndigitalpk

After the results of the poll with over 36,000 votes showed a vast majority of users on X preferring the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) over others, the X handle of PML(N) quickly deleted the poll. But the screenshots of the poll had already gone viral.

<h2>Pakistan elections 2024: What do they mean?</h2>

Pakistan's elected Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party remains in prison since early August&nbsp;following his conviction in a corruption case. Khan was ousted from power following a no-trust-vote in April 2022. A dozen&nbsp;cases and an assassination attempt later, in May 2023, violent&nbsp;PTI supporters attacked army headquarters in Rawalpindi while protesting Khan's arrest in a corruption case -- an unprecedented mini-intifada in a country where the 'establishment' reigns supreme.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-coup-or-not-coup-pakistan-armys-options-after-imran-khans-mini-intifada-592986">To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada'</a>

Following Khan's ouster, an alliance led by PML(N) chose former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's brother Shehbaz Sharif as its leader.

In August,&nbsp;Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, was chosen Pakistan's caretaker prime minister.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Elections to be conducted by February 11

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In October 2023, Nawaz Sharif returned from his self-imposed exile in London after four years, and secured bail on corruption cases he was facing convictions in. Sharif, a four-time prime minister of Pakistan, will now reportedly contest February elections.

Pakistan's erstwhile ruling party Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) became the subject of virtual embarrassment after the results of a poll posted on X, (formerly Twitter) backfired.

Pakistan's erstwhile ruling party Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) became the subject of virtual embarrassment after the results of a poll posted on X, (formerly Twitter) backfired. After months of deadlock over elections even after the appointment of a caretaker prime minister, Pakistan has scheduled general elections for February 8 next year. Also read | Explained | Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar established as Pakistan's caretaker PM. Why it matters Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), assassinated Pakistani PM Benazir Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party and former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) are the top contenders for Islamabad's power corridors, controlled by the country's powerful military-intelligence nexus, dubbed as 'establishment'. What was the poll on 'X' about? The poll on 'X' posted by the PML-N digital team asked users on the platform about their preference for the 2024 general elections. The results revealed that 81 per cent of participants voted for Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), while only 16 per cent opted for Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz). Additionally, 2 per cent voted for Pakistan People's Party, and 1 per cent supported other political parties. Credit: X/@pmlndigitalpk After the results of the poll with over 36,000 votes showed a vast majority of users on X preferring the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) over others, the X handle of PML(N) quickly deleted the poll. But the screenshots of the poll had already gone viral. Pakistan elections 2024: What do they mean? Pakistan's elected Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party remains in prison since early August following his conviction in a corruption case. Khan was ousted from power following a no-trust-vote in April 2022. A dozen cases and an assassination attempt later, in May 2023, violent PTI supporters attacked army headquarters in Rawalpindi while protesting Khan's arrest in a corruption case -- an unprecedented mini-intifada in a country where the 'establishment' reigns supreme. Also read | To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada' Following Khan's ouster, an alliance led by PML(N) chose former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's brother Shehbaz Sharif as its leader. In August, Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, was chosen Pakistan's caretaker prime minister. Also watch | Pakistan: Elections to be conducted by February 11 × In October 2023, Nawaz Sharif returned from his self-imposed exile in London after four years, and secured bail on corruption cases he was facing convictions in. Sharif, a four-time prime minister of Pakistan, will now reportedly contest February elections.

Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif's PML(N) faces online embarrassment over deleted poll

Pakistan Elections: The Election Commission of Pakistan's counsel said the process of drawing constituencies would be completed by January 29, paving the way for the polls.

Race To Power: Election Commission of Pakistan shares poll timeline with Supreme Court

Nawaz Sharif's self-imposed exile may have had a fairytale ending at the moment. But the Lion of Punjab has seen his fair share of twists and turns in his political career. Here is a look back at the PML-N supremo's rise to power, before corruption charges cut short his career in 2018.

Pakistan: Relief for former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif, Islamabad HC restores Nawaz Sharif's appeals

Days after Nawaz Sharif returned to Pakistan from his self-imposed exile, his protective bail has now been extended to October 26. The former Prime Minister appeared in Islamabad High Court in the lieu of corruption cases against him.

Pakistan: Nawaz Sharif bail extended till Oct 26, court grants relief to former PM | WION Dispatch

After notifying the federal government and the Election Commission, the Supreme Court on Monday postponed the election case until November 2. While considering various petitions regarding the postponement of general elections for longer than ninety days, Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa noted that it was "not possible" to satisfy the ninety-day limit.

Pakistan Top Court adjourns election delay case until November 2

Ahead of the planned return of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to Pakistan. The Islamabad High Court has granted him protective bail in two corruption cases until the 24th of October.

Pakistan: Ex-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif granted bail, arrest warrants suspended

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's daughter, Maryam Sharif, is busy setting the stage for Sharif's return to Pakistan later this month. Maryam said in a statement that Nawaz Sharif's return to Pakistan is as a more 'powerful leader' this time.

Pakistan: Maryam Sharif hails Nawaz Sharif's return, says 'he will steer Pak out of all crisis'

The drama over election dates in Pakistan continues President Arif Alvi has proposed November 6th as the date for general elections.

Pakistan president proposes November 6 as date for general elections

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