Rigged elections in Pakistan: What's next for the near-failed state?
PTI-backed candidates have won the lion's share of 92 seats in the 266-member assembly, while Nawaz Sharif-led Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has maintained a lead on 71 seats. The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) is leading with 54, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) with 17, as the result of 255 seats out of 265 announced by the Election Commission of Pakistan. For Pakistan elections 2024 LIVE updates, click here.
Both Imran Khan and Nawaz Sharif have claimed victory but none have come even closer to crossing the majority. To form a government, a party must win 133 out of the 265 seats in the National Assembly. Election to one seat was postponed after the death of a candidate.
Also Read: Why an election upset in Pakistan could mean for India The PML-N had been expected to win the most seats following Thursday's vote, with analysts saying its 74-year-old founder Nawaz Sharif had the blessing of the military-led establishment. It is also alleged that the military, the most-powerful institution in Pakistan, has been instrumental in playing a key role in making and breaking governments. Imran Khan, who enjoys a backing from the people, has accused the military of a crackdown on him and his party; the military has denied this.
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