Despite political tension and a difficult election cycle, Pakistan has elected Pakistani Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) leader Shehbaz Sharif as its new prime minister, getting 201 votes against opponent Omar Ayub Khan, part of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
The PML-N, Pakistan People’s Party, and several other parties agreed to form a coalition government since no party won a majority in this election.
Members of the PTI claimed the government committed election fraud during the election and held large protests throughout the country after the election.
Going forward, the new officials have a long list of challenges, including the economic crisis, combating the increasing militant strikes, securing a $6 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF), and lastly, mapping a complex political landscape.
Shehbaz addressed the people after his election, addressing the situation regarding Kashmir, referring to China as a “close partner,” and maintaining ties with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.
