Senior Aide Urges Peaceful Protests Amid Election Uncertainty in Pakistan
Candidates Backed by Imran Khan’s Party Aim to Form Government
Candidates supported by the party of imprisoned Pakistani opposition leader Imran Khan are reportedly set to establish a government, according to a senior aide to the former prime minister. The aide urged supporters to engage in peaceful protests if final election results are not promptly released.
General Election Results Awaited Amid Economic Crisis and Militant Violence
The 241 million-strong nation cast their votes on Thursday in a general election, amidst grappling with an economic crisis and combating militant violence in a deeply divided political landscape.
Uncertainty Over Victory Declarations by Khan and Rival Sharif
Both Imran Khan and his primary rival, three-time former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, declared triumph on Friday, heightening uncertainty surrounding the formation of the next government at a critical juncture when swift policy action is imperative to address multiple challenges.
Party Chairman Calls for Respect of Mandate
Gohar Khan, the chairman of Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-Insaf (PTI) party, implored “all institutions” in Pakistan to honor his party’s mandate. He warned of peaceful protests if complete election results were not disclosed by Saturday night.
Protests Emerge as Supporters Rally in Peshawar
Hundreds of Khan’s supporters gathered in Peshawar, voicing their discontent after two of his aides were allegedly declared losers despite winning the polls. The protesters accused vote fraud and rallied against the perceived injustice.
Delayed Results and Independent Candidates’ Triumph
By 5 p.m. on Saturday, results for 10 out of 265 contested seats were still pending, 48 hours after the polls closed. Independent candidates emerged victorious in 100 seats, with Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) securing 72 seats.
Implications of Independent Candidates’ Triumph
At least 90 of the successful independent candidates were backed by Imran Khan and his party, indicating a significant lead over Sharif’s party. Khan’s supporters ran as independents due to electoral restrictions imposed on his party.
Political Negotiations and Coalition Formation
Political negotiations are anticipated in the coming days as no single party is close to securing a simple majority in parliament. The formation of a coalition government appears inevitable, with various parties vying for significant roles in the new government.
Military’s Role and International Concerns
Pakistan’s army chief lauded the “successful conduct” of the election, emphasizing the necessity for “stable hands” to steer the nation away from political polarization. However, concerns were raised by the United States, Britain, and the European Union regarding the electoral process, urging an investigation into reported irregularities.
International Response and Hope for Effective Conclusion
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, leading the Commonwealth team to observe the voting, expressed hope for an effective conclusion that reflects the will of the people. He called on those with grievances over the election to address them in accordance with Pakistani laws.
