Today, an election is underway in Pakistan to elect the country's new Prime Minister, with the main contenders being Nawaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari from the Pakistan Peoples Party. The former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, and his party are excluded from participating in this election.
Polling commenced at 8 am and is scheduled to conclude at 5 pm. In response to security threats, Pakistan has sealed its borders with Iran and Afghanistan, and mobile services have been suspended temporarily.
The suspension of mobile services, a measure taken in the wake of recent terrorist attacks, has been criticized by Bilawal Bhutto, who intends to challenge the decision legally.
The elections are being conducted amidst various challenges, including terrorist threats and economic issues, with the province of Punjab playing a pivotal role in determining the outcome, akin to the significance of Uttar Pradesh in Indian elections. Bilawal Bhutto aims to secure a victory in Punjab to enhance his party's influence.
There is speculation that the military could influence the post-election landscape, given its historical role in Pakistan's politics, despite assertions of neutrality.
The incoming administration will immediately face the task of engaging in negotiations with the International Monetary Fund for financial assistance.
The electoral race features over 17,000 candidates, including 882 women and four transgender individuals, competing for a majority in the 336-seat National Assembly, of which 266 seats are filled through direct elections, while the remaining are reserved for women and minorities.
Despite the ongoing economic crisis highlighted by the World Bank, voter turnout has been substantial. The succeeding government will need to address these economic woes alongside the threat of terrorism.
While some defense experts speculate that the election's outcome might lean in favor of Nawaz Sharif, the formation of a stable government appears challenging due to prevailing economic and political turbulence.
Candidates endorsed by Imran Khan, though he is officially barred, may still impact the election's outcome. The possibility of a hung parliament could elevate the importance of smaller parties in forming a government. Results are anticipated by tomorrow.