The evolving political landscape in Pakistan ahead of its third consecutive parliamentary election on Feb 8 presents a complex web of challenges, US think tanks argue in their election reports.

According to them, the confluence of political repression, militant threats, and military influence cast a shadow over the democratic process, leaving questions about the fairness of the elections and potential implications for Pakistan’s democratic future.

The military’s alleged favouritism toward ex-premier Nawaz Sharif, who returns from exile with legal reprieve, raises suspicions of manipulation, amplifying concerns about the fairness of the upcoming polls. The international community, including the US, closely watches these developments, as the fairness of the electoral process is questioned.

US think tanks express concerns about thousands of candidates from Imran Khan’s party, the PTI, facing rejected nomination papers and various forms of harassment.

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