Pakistan prepares for an election marked by militant attacks, economic woes, and political divisions, with analysts foreseeing no clear victor. The competition primarily involves candidates aligned with imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) led by thrice-premier Nawaz Sharif, seen as the frontrunner. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, son of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, presents a strong challenge.

Analysts suggest that Pakistan's influential military could sway the outcome, despite its claims of non-interference in politics. Imran Khan accuses the military of targeting his party, while opponents claim the generals support Sharif. This election sees a reversal from 2018, with Khan previously backed by the military and Sharif facing corruption charges.

The outcome is uncertain, and instability looms if no party secures a clear majority. Economic challenges await the next government, including securing a new IMF bailout as the current program ends in March.

Unofficial results are expected soon after polls close, with smaller parties potentially pivotal in forming a government requiring 169 seats in the 336-member National Assembly. Directly elected members number 266, while 70 reserved seats are allocated based on party performance, with 60 for women and 10 for non-Muslims. Independents, many supported by Khan, hold sway, with their allegiance likely to shape post-election dynamics. Khan has vowed his candidates won't support Sharif or Bhutto Zardari.

The election's aftermath hinges on coalition-building and navigating Pakistan's multifaceted challenges, underscoring the significance of smaller parties and independent candidates in shaping the political landscape.

Pakistan prepares for an election marked by militant attacks, economic woes, and political divisions, with analysts foreseeing no clear victor. The competition primarily involves candidates aligned with imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) led by thrice-premier Nawaz Sharif, seen as the frontrunner. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, son of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, presents a strong challenge.

Analysts suggest that Pakistan's influential military could sway the outcome, despite its claims of non-interference in politics. Imran Khan accuses the military of targeting his party, while opponents claim the generals support Sharif. This election sees a reversal from 2018, with Khan previously backed by the military and Sharif facing corruption charges.

The outcome is uncertain, and instability looms if no party secures a clear majority. Economic challenges await the next government, including securing a new IMF bailout as the current program ends in March.

Unofficial results are expected soon after polls close, with smaller parties potentially pivotal in forming a government requiring 169 seats in the 336-member National Assembly. Directly elected members number 266, while 70 reserved seats are allocated based on party performance, with 60 for women and 10 for non-Muslims. Independents, many supported by Khan, hold sway, with their allegiance likely to shape post-election dynamics. Khan has vowed his candidates won't support Sharif or Bhutto Zardari.

The election's aftermath hinges on coalition-building and navigating Pakistan's multifaceted challenges, underscoring the significance of smaller parties and independent candidates in shaping the political landscape.