Pakistan's lawmakers have elected Asif Ali Zardari as the country's president for the second time. Zardari, the widower of the late former premier Benazir Bhutto and father of former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, secured 411 votes from national and provincial lawmakers. His opponent, Mehmood Khan Achakzai, backed by the party of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, received 181 votes.
The Pakistani presidency is largely ceremonial, and Zardari previously held the position between 2008 and 2013. He was the joint candidate of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) party of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his political allies.
Zardari's victory was expected due to his alliance with Pakistan's other political dynasty, the Sharifs, and his role in forming a coalition government after the disputed national parliamentary election on Feb. 8. Prime Minister Sharif congratulated Zardari on his win, expressing hope that Zardari would fulfill his constitutional responsibilities efficiently.
Despite facing criminal cases, Zardari has never been convicted and has denied any wrongdoing. His rival, Achakzai, also congratulated him on his victory, acknowledging that the vote was conducted fairly. Zardari is known for his adept handling of complex political issues.
Last month's election was marred by militant violence, a cellphone shutdown, and allegations of vote-rigging from Khan's party. Imran Khan, who was ousted from office in 2022 and is currently serving prison terms, has faced legal challenges.
Zardari is set to take the oath of office on Sunday, becoming a symbol of the strength of the federation, according to Prime Minister Sharif. Despite his past legal troubles, Zardari's election marks a significant moment in Pakistan's political landscape.
