South Asia

Shehbaz Sharif set to begin second term as Pakistan's prime minister

Published: 13:17, 3 March 2024

Pakistani former premier Shehbaz Sharif was set on Sunday to become prime minister for the second time in a vote by the country's newly formed parliament, three weeks after uncertain national elections led to the formation of a coalition government.

The elections, which took place on February 8, were marred by challenges such as a mobile internet shutdown on election day, pre-election arrests, and instances of violence. Additionally, the delayed release of results led to allegations of election rigging.
Shehbaz Sharif is returning to the role he previously held until August when parliament was dissolved ahead of the elections, allowing a caretaker government to assume control.
The parliamentary vote, which convened for the first time on Thursday, occurred amidst heightened security measures. Candidates supported by the formerly incarcerated Prime Minister Imran Khan have protested the election results and advocated for his release.
At the age of 72, Shehbaz Sharif is the younger brother of the three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who led the election campaign for their Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party.
Despite candidates backed by Imran Khan securing the most seats, the PML-N and the Pakistan Peoples Party reached an agreement to form a coalition government. This arrangement facilitated Shehbaz Sharif's election as prime minister, as his brother willingly stepped aside.
During his previous term, Sharif's government successfully negotiated a crucial deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, the implementation of the agreement, set to expire in April, faced challenges. The measures stipulated by the IMF contributed to rising prices and increased pressure on poor and middle-class households.
The incoming government faces the immediate task of engaging in discussions with the IMF for the next agreement to stabilize the country's economy. Simultaneously, it must address the growing discontent arising from deepening poverty.