Imran Khan-backed independents lead Pakistan polls; govt formation talks begin
PTC News Desk: The political landscape in Pakistan witnessed a surprising shift as independent candidates, backed by jailed ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan, secured the majority of seats in parliament. According to the Election Commission of Pakistan, independent candidates clinched 102 seats, with Nawaz Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz Party (PMLN) following closely with 73 seats, and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) securing 54 seats.
In a recent development, PMLN has initiated talks with the leadership of PPP for potential government formation.
These election results emerged over three days after the conclusion of Thursday's highly contentious polls, which were marred by violence and allegations of rigging. Several nations, including the United States, the UK, and the European Union, condemned the electoral process, urging Pakistani authorities to investigate reported irregularities in the general elections.
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As Pakistan elections conclude amidst global attention, here's a recap of events:
- PPP leaders Asif Ali Zardari, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and PMLN chief Shehbaz Sharif discussed government formation at Bhutto’s residence, as per PPP's official Twitter handle.
- Independent candidates linked to Imran Khan’s PTI secured the most parliamentary seats, as announced in Sunday's election results.
- PMLN, led by Nawaz Sharif, secured 73 parliamentary seats.
- The Election Commission of Pakistan ordered vote recounting in Balochistan’s provincial constituency, PB-21, on Sunday.
- Section 144 was imposed in Islamabad, permitting legal action against illegal gatherings and activities.
- Imran Khan’s media advisor stated PTI would soon announce the party independents should join.
- PML-N and PPP previously agreed to form a coalition government after both failed to secure a majority.
- Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) is prepared to join government discussions, as stated by Geo Tv sources.
- Pakistan's army chief emphasized political unity for effective governance and service to the people.
- Former Prime Ministers Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan declared victory before official results, delivering victory speeches.
- PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari was reportedly summoned by Asif Zardari from Islamabad to Lahore.
- PPP's central information secretary suggested Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari consider opposition if not elected PM.
- PTI-backed candidate Waseem Qadir joined PML-N after winning from Lahore’s NA-121 constituency.
- PTI postponed protests and planned peaceful demonstrations outside Returning Officers' offices.
- Estranged PML-N leader Daniyal Aziz and QAT leader Ayaz Latif Palijo rejected results citing rigging.
- ANP’s Aimal Wali Khan criticized general election results as the "worst in Pakistan’s history."
- Police warned against unlawful assemblies and protests regarding alleged rigging in Thursday's election.
- PTI tasked lawyer Umair Khan Niazi to engage with party-backed candidates for federal government roles.
- PTI’s Meher Bano Qureshi claimed independents won't switch loyalties to other parties.
- PTI protesters outside ECP office in Karachi concluded their demonstration against election results.
- JUI-F criticized the election commission over irregularities and termed Form 47 issuance illegal.
- Pakistan elections were marred by militant attacks, leading to mobile and internet service suspensions.
- Media faced difficulties gathering information due to restrictions on movement and speech.
- Several nations voiced concerns over curbs on freedom of expression in Pakistan.
- Security analyst Muhammad Amir Rana noted the poor performance of religious parties compared to previous elections.
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(Inputs from agencies)