Pakistan Vote Counting Concludes: Imran Khan’s Party-backed Independents Lead, No Clear Winner

Islamabad: As the vote counting concludes in Pakistan, independent candidates, largely supported by the imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, are currently leading in 101 out of 264 seats, followed by Nawaz Sharif’s PML-N at 72 and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s PPP with 54, according to the Election Commission’s website.

However, with no party reaching the 133-seat majority needed to form a government, Pakistan faces a period of uncertainty and potential coalition negotiations.

While enjoying a lead, these independents cannot form a government alone under electoral law. They must either join a party or form a coalition to secure the required seats.

Both main rivals, Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan, have declared victory despite neither having a clear majority. Sharif has called for coalition talks, while Khan remains incarcerated pending corruption and other charges.

Concerns over vote manipulation have been raised by multiple parties, leading to court petitions and protests. Investigations are ongoing, with the international community urging transparency and a smooth democratic process.

Due to technical glitches and other issues, re-polling is set for February 15th in select constituencies, further delaying the final results.

With no single party holding a majority, the likelihood of a coalition government formed through negotiations between various parties has increased. This could bring both challenges and opportunities for stability and compromise.

Pakistan’s history of military involvement in politics raises concerns about its position in the current stalemate. While the army chief has called for stability and downplayed accusations of influence, their stance remains crucial.

The delayed and tight election results add to Pakistan’s existing economic hardships and security concerns.