Shehbaz Sharif Secures A Second Term As Pakistan’s Prime Minister After Contentious Elections

Eko Hot Blog reports that Shehbaz Sharif has assumed the position of Pakistan’s prime minister for the second time, following an inconclusive general election marked by delays and numerous allegations of vote-rigging that occurred nearly a month ago.

Editor’s Pick

• Senate Calls For Review Of 2024 Budget Over Naira Depreciation
• Farewell To A Comedy Icon – Paul Okoye Cries Out
• SERAP Drags Tinubu To Court ‘Over Failure To Probe Missing $3.4 Billion IMF Loan’

In the February 8 election, no party attained a majority. PTI-affiliated candidates, associated with imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, ran as independents but clinched the most seats, totaling 102. PMLN, led by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and older brother of Shehbaz Sharif, secured second place with 73 seats, while their enduring rivals, PPP, won 54 seats.

Under the coalition, the PPP’s Asif Ali Zardari takes the presidency. Zaradari is the widower of the assassinated former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, whose family dominates the party.

 

Shehbaz Sharif was first sworn in as Pakistan’s prime minister in April 2022, after Imran Khan was dramatically ousted from power in a parliamentary no-confidence vote.

Shehbaz Sharif, supported by his brother, has reclaimed his previous role after the dissolution of parliament last year. He is set to lead a coalition government with the PMLN.

During his address to parliamentarians after the lower house vote, opposition members chanted accusations, labeling him as a thief.

Pakistan’s new government is already facing clear challenges, including mounting discontent over the country’s worsening poverty. Sharif will be tasked with starting further talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a deal to secure Pakistan’s economy.

Loyal supporters of Khan who have continued to rally against authorities are also likely to pose an issue for Sharif.

Khan is now in prison, serving a minimum of 14 years for various offenses, such as corruption and disclosing state secrets.

Further Reading

• “Reconcile, Ensure PDP Retains Edo”- Atiku Charges Ex-Aspirants
• Nollywood Actress, Kate Henshaw Loses Mum
• Tough Times Lead To Warehouse Damage – FCT Residents Speak Out

Additionally, in February, he and his wife received an extra seven-year sentence for a district court’s determination that their 2018 marriage breached the law. Khan maintains that the charges are politically driven.

Click here to watch our video of the week