Game has just begun: Will Imran Khan return to pole position in politically volatile Pakistan — experts weigh in
Pakistan will attempt to keep his popularity in check, but it remains to be seen for how long they can hold him off. Well, just don't take our word for it. LiveMint spoke with various international observers on the subject and almost all were unanimous in their opinion that Imran Khan's popularity will haunt the Army and the new government in Pakistan for a while.
Professor Harsh V. Pant, Vice President–Studies and Foreign Policy at Observer Research Foundation, believes that the game has just begun for Imran Khan. He describes the shaky foundations of the new government of Pakistan and how Imran Khan will use his charisma to remain relevant in the country's political space.
“I seriously don't think it is game over for Imran Khan or the PTI; perhaps it's the other way around and the game has just started as now Pakistan has a government which is weak and shaky to the length that nobody wanted to be the prime minister. The Pakistan People's Party (PPP) decision to support the government from the outside simply means that the chaos in Pakistan will continue and despite being in prison, Imran Khan will use his charisma and ability to mobilise supporters to protest against the new government and the military establishment. This all makes Imran Khan a very important factor in the political evolution of Pakistan from here on," Pant said.
Dr Rishi Gupta, Research Fellow, Asia Society Policy Institute vouches for a wait-and-watch mode for Imran Khan. He said that a change in military leadership can work well for the PTI chief and it is just a matter of who concedes first. “Despite the challenges and controversies surrounding his tenure, Imran Khan has shown elasticity and a knack for political resurgence.
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