There has been significant controversy in the wake of the 2024 general elections in Pakistan. The results were an echo of past elections, with allegations of establishment interference, election manipulation, and stolen mandates. The election will exacerbate the unrest, compounding the country’s problems instead of paving the way for much-needed political stability.
Many political commentators expressed deep concern about the tragic and absurd elections. Some characterized the conflicting rhetoric as highly toxic, with political adversaries alleging that the other presented a threat or danger to the country. There was general agreement that democracy faces critical challenges from the breakdown of democratic institutions and the deterioration of constitutional standards. The confidence of the public in democracy is being undermined by propaganda and disinformation.
The high degree of skepticism of the electoral process raised concerns about the country’s declining level of democratization and transparency. Ironically, the victors expressed disappointment in their margin of victory, while the losers predictably refused to accept the outcome. Election tribunals and courts must adjudicate on the contested results in many constituencies.
Still, the election results were predictable and unsurprising despite the high drama. Gallup Pakistan surveys showed that Pakistanis were experiencing unprecedented disillusionment with many economic, political, and security challenges that threatened the country’s stability in the run-up to the election.........