Confusion reigns in Pakistan’s rigged election
Despite their strenuous efforts, the generals appear much less in control than they thought
UNTIL VERY recently Nawaz Sharif seemed certain to be Pakistan’s next prime minister. On February 6th his Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) party took out full-page adverts in major Pakistani newspapers announcing its imminent victory in elections on February 8th and anointing Mr Sharif the head of its new government. Assured of the support of the country’s powerful army, which has in effect been running the country through a loyal caretaker government since Parliament was dissolved in August, Mr Sharif, a three-time former prime minister, and his party appeared set to romp home.
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