Since the founding of Pakistan in 1947, not a single prime minister has served the full five-year term. If this fact betokens a country marked by instability and sudden changes in the political mood then last week’s remarkable elections have done little to change that reputation. The electoral analysts were proved wrong, as candidates loyal to the imprisoned former prime minister, Imran Khan, stunned outside observers – and even the country’s political elite – by winning the most seats. One thing can now be predicted with confidence: a new period of political turmoil.
Nearly 60 million people turned out to vote on 8 February. On polling day, the government imposed a mobile services and internet blackout across the country, citing threats of terrorism and social unrest. The move severely restricted journalists’ and voters’ ability to monitor polling stations and provide real-time updates. Voters also criticised the slow counting of votes by the Election Commission of Pakistan, raising suspicion of irregularities. As the final results were announced on Sunday, protests were already under way across Pakistan as candidates loyal to Khan alleged serious vote-rigging.
