Pakistan Election 2024 Highlights: Shehbaz Sharif Sworn In As Pakistan PM - Here Are The List Of Challenges

Shehbaz Sharif has sworn in as Prime Minister of Pakistan for the second time since 2022, amidst daunting economic and security challenges faced by the country, on Monday.

The oath was administered by President Arif Alvi at the President's residence in the afternoon.

Photo Credit: PTI

Shehbaz Sharif to take oath as Pakistan PM

The ceremony follows a recent power-sharing agreement between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party to form a coalition government. Shehbaz, aged 72, previously held the position from April 2022 to August 2023. The oath-taking event is expected to be attended by Pakistan Army Chief Gen Asim Munir, caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar, and chief ministers and governors of all four provinces, as reported by Geo News.

Sharif's victory in securing 201 votes in the 336-member Parliament marks his return to power. However, his administration faces lingering doubts over its legitimacy, the need to renegotiate a loan with the International Monetary Fund by April, and the challenge of managing relations with a military that once exiled him."

Shehbaz Sharif's Unexpected Rise to Prime Minister

Election Outcome and Initial Reactions

• Shehbaz Sharif emerged as the unexpected choice for Prime Minister, securing victory over Omar Ayub Khan of PTI, as the consensus candidate of PML-N and PPP.
• Initial assumptions of Nawaz Sharif taking the helm were overturned, triggering protests and dissent in the National Assembly, with members displaying allegiance to incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Political Challenges Ahead

• Governance: Shehbaz faces the daunting task of governing amidst vehement opposition from Imran Khan's PTI, which pledges to serve as a formidable opposition, seeking the release of its leaders and their return to parliament.
• Coalition Dynamics: With PML-N and PPP forming a coalition government, discord and disagreements over governance strategies are anticipated, potentially undermining the coalition's stability and efficacy.

Economic Instability and Policy Challenges

• IMF Bailout: The pressing need for another IMF bailout to address economic instability looms large, requiring Shehbaz to navigate through unpopular austerity measures to secure the necessary funds.
• Public Discontent: Implementation of harsh economic measures, such as potential tax hikes, risks triggering widespread public discontent and exacerbating existing socio-economic grievances, as per media reports.

Security Concerns and Rising Militancy

• Security Situation: Shehbaz's government confronts mounting security challenges posed by escalating attacks from militant outfits like TTP and ISIS, particularly in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
• Collaboration with Military: Effective collaboration and coordination with Pakistan's military establishment are imperative to combat terrorism and address the escalating security threats effectively.

Shehbaz Sharif assumed the mantle of leadership during a pivotal period characterized by economic uncertainty, political volatility, and escalating security risks, underscoring the formidable challenges ahead and the criticality of astute leadership and strategic governance, as reported by First Post.