Shehbaz Sharif Reclaims Prime Minister Position in Pakistan Amidst Election Controversy
In a political twist, Shehbaz Sharif has secured his position as Pakistan’s Prime Minister for the second time, leading a coalition government formed by the Pakistan Muslim League (N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party. This comes after a three-week delay in the formation of a coalition government following the uncertain national elections.
The elections, held on February 8, were marred by controversies, including a mobile internet shutdown, arrests, and violence during the build-up. Allegations of election rigging further complicated the process, with delayed results sparking accusations of foul play.
Sharif, 72, returned to the role he previously held until August when parliament dissolved ahead of the elections, leading to a caretaker government takeover. The recent parliamentary vote faced tight security measures, accompanied by protests from candidates supported by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently in jail.
The Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), supported by Khan, alleges that the national election was rigged and has called for a thorough audit of the polls, despite no single party securing a majority.
Shehbaz Sharif, the younger brother of three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, successfully formed a coalition government with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), allowing him to reclaim the prime ministerial role as his brother stepped aside.
In his previous term, Sharif’s government navigated challenges to secure a critical International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal. However, the upcoming negotiation for the next IMF agreement, crucial for stabilizing the country’s economy, adds pressure to the new government. The expiration of the current agreement in April has contributed to rising prices and heightened pressure on poor and middle-class households.
As the new government assumes office, it faces the immediate task of engaging in talks with the IMF to address economic challenges while simultaneously addressing the discontent arising from deepening poverty. Ongoing challenges from Imran Khan’s supporters further underscore the complex landscape Shehbaz Sharif’s government must navigate in the coming months.
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