Shehbaz Sharif emerges as Pakistan's 'Accidental' Prime Minister amid political turmoil

Shehbaz Sharif, a 72-year-old leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), has been elected as the 24th prime minister of Pakistan. Backed by a coalition of PML-N and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Shehbaz secured 201 votes in the National Assembly, surpassing the required 169 votes.

Background and political career

Shehbaz Sharif hails from the influential Sharif family of Lahore, Punjab, and has been involved in politics since the 1980s. He served multiple terms as the chief minister of Punjab, demonstrating his administrative capabilities. In 2022, he briefly served as prime minister in the absence of his elder brother, Nawaz Sharif. Shehbaz is known for his efforts to prevent Pakistan from economic default and for implementing tough measures to stabilize the economy.

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Sharif faces significant challenges as he assumes office. Pakistan's economy is grappling with high inflation, prompting the need for unpopular measures likely mandated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Additionally, security threats have intensified, with a surge in attacks attributed to the Taliban's resurgence in neighboring Afghanistan.

Support and criticism

Shehbaz received support from various political parties, including PPP, MQM-P, PML (Q), Balochistan Awami Party, PML (Z), Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party, and the National Party. However, his election faced criticism from PTI-backed lawmakers who alleged vote rigging.

As Pakistan's prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif faces the daunting task of addressing economic instability and security challenges. His leadership will be crucial in implementing necessary reforms to stabilize the economy and ensure the safety and security of the nation's citizens amidst escalating security threats.

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