Pakistan Election: Pakistan Election 2024: Voting for the general elections in Pakistan is scheduled for Thursday (February 8). Among the leading contenders for the post of Prime Minister, three prominent names dominate the discourse: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz chief and former PM Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan Peoples Party’s Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief and former PM Imran Khan.
Traditionally, Pakistani politicians have taken a hostile stance towards India, making the management of bilateral relations a key issue in Pakistani politics.
Nawaz Sharif’s Position on India
Reports suggest that Nawaz Sharif, aspiring for his fourth term as Prime Minister, aims to improve relations with India. His party manifesto promises a message of peace with India, but with a condition attached: he demands the reinstatement of Article 370 in Kashmir as a prerequisite for establishing peace with India.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s Perspective
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party and scion of the Bhutto dynasty, has been critical of India’s actions, particularly regarding Kashmir. While advocating for normalization of relations with India, he has previously expressed strong objections to India’s policies, including during diplomatic tensions with Canada. He has also used harsh language against Indian leaders on various occasions.
Imran Khan’s Stand
Imran Khan, leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, remains a significant contender for the premiership. However, his eligibility to contest the elections is currently in question due to a jail sentence. In his previous tenure as Prime Minister, Khan expressed a desire for reciprocal relations with India, emphasizing the need for a Kashmir roadmap. He has also urged India to give peace a chance and has welcomed dialogue to resolve outstanding issues, including through the 2021 ceasefire agreement.
