Shillong, August 10: Late Wednesday night, Pakistan’s President dissolved the parliament on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marking the start of preparations for a national election amidst significant political and economic challenges.
The decision was made three days before the expiration of the parliament’s five-year term on August 12. A caretaker administration, chosen by Sharif and an opposition leader, will oversee new elections within 90 days.
In a parliamentary session, Sharif stated his intention to advise the president for the dissolution of the parliament. He also revealed plans to engage with the opposition leader to select a caretaker prime minister from recommended candidates on both sides.
However, the election process could face delays as the election commission embarks on redrawing constituencies based on a recent census. Such delays might stoke public frustration and increase uncertainty in the country.
The previous general election in July 2018 resulted in the victory of the party led by former cricketer Imran Khan, who assumed the role of prime minister. Khan’s subsequent removal through a no-confidence vote and his conviction in a corruption case have contributed to political instability. He is barred from participating in elections for five years.
Khan has accused the military of orchestrating his removal, a claim the military denies. Shehbaz Sharif took over as prime minister and has grappled with economic crises and high inflation while implementing reforms to secure funding from the International Monetary Fund.