Imran Khan’s party makes early gains despite hurdles

Votes are currently being counted following yesterday’s general election in Pakistan, which was marred by the suspension of mobile phone and internet services and violent unrest. Many analysts consider this to be among Pakistan’s least credible elections, and the release of results has been notably sluggish compared to previous votes.

A total of 44 parties vied for seats in the National Assembly, though numerous experts assert that there is essentially one prominent contender for the top position: former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Once perceived as an adversary to Pakistan’s influential military, Sharif has undergone a remarkable reversal of fortunes, now being viewed as their favoured candidate.

Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been disqualified from standing after being removed from power and subsequently imprisoned on multiple convictions, continues to maintain significant popularity, even from his jail cell. Many members of his PTI party opted to run as independent candidates.