Pakistan is electing a new parliament. Here are the key players ahead of the vote
Associated PressJan 31
Imran Khan Allies Take Lead in Pakistani Election
Image copyright: Drew Angerer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Voters cast their ballots in Pakistan's contentious election on Thursday. In a surprising turn of events, independent candidates aligned with imprisoned former prime minister Imran Khan took the lead despite not being able to run as members of Khan's PTI party.
The final results are still inconclusive. The incumbent PML-N party of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was the overwhelming favorite to win the parliamentary elections, and long reporting delays sparked accusations of fraud.
The Spin
Narrative A
Despite all of the lies, deceit, and abuse of power, the PTI has the overwhelming mandate of the Pakistani people. Imran Khan has had the full weight of the Pakistani political and military regime aligned against him, yet his ideas cannot be stopped. Unfortunately, the powers that be are still working behind the scenes to undermine democracy and manipulate as many votes as they can. Pakistanis and proponents of democracy around the world cannot stand idly by as Nawaz Sharif and his allies attempt a coup. The PTI won this election, and it will deliver for its supporters.
Narrative B
The Pakistan election still has no clear winners, but it appears that PML-N has secured the most votes. Pakistan has conducted a free and fair election where the will of the people is heard and honored. Unfortunately, violent extremists have perpetrated political violence that has delayed election results, but this election will be sorted out shortly. A coalition government will soon form to begin serving the Pakistani people.
Metaculus Prediction
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