Pakistan Election 2024 Candidates: Who’s In The Race?

Approximately 128 million voters are casting their votes today, February 8, to determine the composition of a new government in Pakistan.

According to data released by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), a total of 17,816 candidates are vying for various positions, with 12,695 contesting for provincial assemblies and 5,121 for National Assembly seats. Among the candidates, there are 16,930 males, 882 females, and four transgender individuals. Political parties have put forth 6,031 candidates, consisting of 5,726 males and 275 females. An unprecedented 11,785 independents are also partaking in the election, encompassing 11,174 males, 607 females, and four transgender individuals.

Read more: Internet Suspended In Pakistani City Ahead Of Elections 2024

Regarding prominent figures in the race, Nawaz Sharif from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is widely acknowledged as a significant contender. Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the co-chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party and son of the late Benazir Bhutto, is another notable participant.

Imran Khan, the last elected prime minister, is notably absent from the electoral competition due to his current incarceration in Adiala Jail. He is serving a prison term for multiple charges, including corruption, treason, and fraudulent marriage.

Post-election, the new parliament will play a crucial role in selecting the next prime minister. If no single party secures an outright majority, the possibility of a coalition government being formed arises.

The extensive candidate pool and the absence of Imran Khan due to legal issues contribute to the anticipation and uncertainty surrounding the election outcome. The diverse representation, including a record number of independent candidates, underscores the democratic complexity of the electoral landscape in Pakistan.

In conclusion, with millions of voters exercising their democratic right, the election is poised to shape the political trajectory of Pakistan. The extensive list of candidates, including notable figures and a substantial number of independents, adds layers of intrigue to the electoral process. As the results unfold, the composition of the new government will be a pivotal factor in shaping the future of the nation.