The latest results of Pakistan's general election indicate that independent candidates supported by the incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan's PTI party are leading the pack.
Independents have secured victory in 101 seats of the National Assembly, with BBC analysis revealing that 93 of these victories belong to PTI-backed candidates.
This outcome places them ahead of the PMLN led by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, which secured 75 seats. However, the formation of the government remains uncertain.
As negotiations continue, unsuccessful independent candidates have inundated courts with allegations of vote rigging.
Both the PTI, which was barred from contesting the election, and Mr. Sharif's PMLN express their desire to lead the next government.
The election results came as a surprise, with many expecting Mr. Sharif's party, perceived to have the support of the influential military, to emerge victorious, given Mr. Khan's incarceration and his party's exclusion from the ballot.
To govern, a candidate must demonstrate a simple majority of 169 seats in the National Assembly.
PMLN has initiated formal discussions with Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's PPP regarding government formation, aiming to bring political stability to the country.
The MQM party from Karachi has made an unexpected return in the polls, securing 17 seats, potentially influencing any coalition.
Out of the National Assembly's 366 seats, 266 are decided by direct voting, while 70 are reserved - 60 for women and 10 for non-Muslims - allocated based on each party's strength in the assembly.
Under Pakistan's regulations, independent candidates are not eligible for reserved parliamentary seats.
Several parties, including PTI, have called for protests against alleged election rigging, prompting a police response to maintain order.
Mr. Sharif, believed to be the military's preference, has urged other parties to support him in forming a unity government.
As discussions unfold among Mr. Khan's political adversaries, experts warn of potential prolonged political instability in Pakistan.
Legal challenges have been lodged by at least six unsuccessful PTI-backed candidates to contest the election results, alleging irregularities.
Despite the denials of Pakistani officials, the PMLN has assembled a legal team to address allegations of rigging.
0 Comments