Pakistan’s recent parliamentary election was anything but ordinary. With 44 parties vying for seats in the National Assembly, the country witnessed intense competition and political maneuvering. However, the election was marred by delays, allegations of vote-rigging, and unprecedented disruptions. Let’s delve into the key takeaways from this eventful election.
Delays, Delays, Delays
In an effort to maintain law and order, authorities implemented a nationwide shutdown of mobile phone services, which inadvertently delayed the communication of results. Even more concerning was the fact that, even 15 hours after the polls closed, the Election Commission had not published any results. This lack of transparency caused widespread uncertainty and instability. International observers, including the United States and the European Union, expressed their concerns over the prolonged delay.
Vote Rigging and Other Controversies
Numerous candidates reported witnessing significant leads disappearing and results being reversed in favor of their opponents. Furthermore, there were reports of candidates being barred from entering polling stations and polling agents being prevented from collecting results. Independent candidates backed by imprisoned ex-premier Imran Khan’s party were particularly affected by these irregularities. One candidate, Salman Akram Raja, has even filed a case challenging the results in his constituency at the Lahore High Court.
Trends and Turnouts
While the Election Commission has yet to release official data on voter turnout, early analysis suggests that approximately 60 million people, out of a total electorate of 127 million, cast their votes. This represents a 47% turnout, lower than the previous parliamentary polls in 2018. Interestingly, political parties or independent candidates backed by Imran Khan’s PTI party seemed to have garnered more votes, and major parties managed to secure support outside their traditional strongholds.
Deals, Deals, Deals
With no party securing a majority in the National Assembly, coalition-building became inevitable. Two parties claimed victory despite not having the required number of seats. The process of horse-trading began immediately, with the younger brother of three-time premier Nawaz Sharif meeting with influential figures like Asif Ali Zardari and his son Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. The possibility of a coalition between the Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) seems likely. Independent candidates, with their 100 seats, have become valuable assets in this game of political alliances.
Dynastic Politics: Enter the Nepo Babies
Pakistani politics has long been a family affair, and this election showcased the rise of younger leaders from prominent political families. Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the daughter of ex-premier Nawaz Sharif, and Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the son of the assassinated premier Benazir Bhutto, have both increased their public visibility in recent years. While Bilawal has held PPP’s chairmanship since 2007 and is expected to become prime minister one day due to his lineage, Maryam is being groomed as the heir of the PML-N. Her fiery speeches and active involvement in party politics make her a formidable force. Speculations abound that she may even assume the role of chief minister of Punjab province, viewed as a stepping stone to the premiership.
The 2019 Pakistani elections have certainly been eventful, with delays, controversies, and the rise of new political stars. As the country waits for the final results and coalition formation, one thing is clear: Pakistan’s political landscape continues to evolve, driven by both old dynasties and emerging voices.
