Shehbaz Sharif Secures Second Term as Pakistan’s Prime Minister Amid Controversy
Islamabad, Pakistan – Pakistani legislators have elected Shehbaz Sharif as the country’s prime minister for a second term following a controversial election last month. The South Asian country voted on February 8 in a vote marred by allegations of large-scale rigging and delayed results. On Sunday, the National Assembly, as the lower house of parliament is called, met to elect the premier.
Election Outcome
Shehbaz Sharif secured 201 votes in the 336-member National Assembly, comfortably prevailing over rival Omar Ayub Khan, who won 92. The winner needed at least 169 votes. Khan was backed by the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), the political group legislators belonging to former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party joined after the PTI was barred from contesting for allegedly violating election laws.
National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq declared, “Shehbaz Sharif is declared to have been elected the prime minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.”
Shehbaz Sharif’s Background
Sharif, 72, served as prime minister until August last year when the National Assembly was dissolved to make way for a caretaker government, tasked with holding the national elections. Shehbaz is the younger brother of three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who founded the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) party, which is in alliance with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to form the government. Shehbaz is also the current PMLN president.
PTI’s Reaction
The PTI, which was forced to field its candidates as independents after losing its election symbol, had emerged as the largest group with 93 seats. The party alleges its mandate was “stolen” and has also kicked off street protests against the alleged rigging. PTI leader Khan, who was removed through a parliamentary vote of no confidence in 2022, has been in jail since August last year following multiple convictions, including for revealing state secrets, corruption, and an “unlawful” wedding.
Conclusion
The re-election of Shehbaz Sharif as Pakistan’s Prime Minister marks a significant moment in the country’s political landscape, particularly amid controversies surrounding the election process. As he takes office, all eyes will be on his leadership and the ability of his government to address the nation’s challenges amidst ongoing political turbulence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Shehbaz Sharif Secures Second Term as Pakistan’s Prime Minister Amid Controversy
Who is Shehbaz Sharif?
Shehbaz Sharif is a Pakistani politician who has served as Prime Minister of Pakistan. He is the younger brother of Nawaz Sharif and is affiliated with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) party.
What was the controversy surrounding the election?
The February 8 election in Pakistan was marred by allegations of large-scale rigging and delayed results. Opposition parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), accused the ruling party of electoral fraud.
How many votes did Shehbaz Sharif secure in the National Assembly?
Shehbaz Sharif secured 201 votes in the 336-member National Assembly, comfortably prevailing over his rival Omar Ayub Khan.
What is the PTI’s reaction to Shehbaz Sharif’s election?
The PTI, which emerged as the largest group in the National Assembly, has alleged that its mandate was stolen. The party has also initiated street protests against the alleged rigging.
What is Imran Khan’s current situation?
Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan and leader of the PTI, has been in jail since August last year following multiple convictions, including for revealing state secrets, corruption, and an “unlawful” wedding.
| Candidate | Votes |
|---|---|
| Shehbaz Sharif | 201 |
| Omar Ayub Khan | 92 |