Pakistan Elections 2024: As the counting of votes wraps up in Pakistan, independent candidates, largely supported by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, are leading in 101 of the 264 seats, according to the Election Commissions website. Amid protests over alleged rigging, re-polling in some polling stations is scheduled for February 15.Pakistan Elections 2024: Political landscape amid economic crisis, terrorismPakistan, with a population of 241 million, held general elections on February 8 amidst economic challenges and terrorism threats. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has declared results for 264 out of 265 contested seats, revealing a deeply polarized political environment.Pakistan Elections 2024: PTIs stand, claims of victoryPTI chairman Gohar Ali Khan emphasized the need for all institutions to respect the peoples mandate. He indicated that PTI would be invited by President Arif Alvi to form the government, with Imran Khan making decisions despite his imprisonment. Independent candidates supported by PTI have surprised many, securing over 100 seats.Pakistan Elections 2024: Rivals respond, claim victoryFormer Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan both claimed victory, despite admitting challenges in forming a government due to the lack of required numbers. Sharif invited allies to form a coalition government, while Khan mocked Sharifs claims and criticized his intelligence.Pakistan Elections 2024: Allegations of rigging, legal challengesAllegations of rigging led to legal challenges filed by PTI, PPP, and PML-N in various courts. The slow vote count and discrepancies in results raised concerns among political parties and international observers.Pakistan Elections 2024: Militarys role, international concernsPakistan Army Chief Syed Asim Munir praised the elections conduct, emphasizing the need for stable governance amid political polarization. The US, UK, and EU expressed concerns over rigging allegations, urging thorough investigations and a democratic process.Pakistan Elections 2024: Path to government formationTo form a government, a party must secure 133 seats in the National Assembly out of 265. With one seat postponed due to a candidates death, 169 seats are needed for a simple majority out of a total of 336 seats, including reserved slots for women and minorities.
