International media outlets and think tanks are forecasting the resurgence of Nawaz Sharif as Pakistan’s Prime Minister for a historic fourth term. Courts overturning his convictions and prison sentences upon his return to Pakistan have paved a clear path for him, according to AP. Notably, prominent voices such as BBC, Guardian, and AFP are among those predicting Sharif’s return to power in the 2024 general elections, as reported by The News.
Having faced expulsion from office multiple times, Sharif’s recent return from self-imposed exile offers him an opportunity to dispel past allegations that led to his previous oustings. However, his tenure is expected to be challenged by fervent supporters of incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who faces multiple convictions.
The Washington Post anticipates Sharif’s victory in the upcoming polls, while Bloomberg suggests a probable scenario of a hung parliament followed by a weak coalition government, potentially led by either Sharif or his brother Shehbaz. The challenges awaiting Sharif include addressing Pakistan’s economic woes, especially rising inflation, and navigating his relationship with the military, as highlighted by Bloomberg’s citation of Madiha Afzal from the Brookings Institution.
CNN underscores Sharif’s prominent position in the election campaign, portraying him as the clear frontrunner against Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the son of the late Benazir Bhutto. Additionally, analysts, including Tim Willasey-Wilsey from King’s College London, stress Sharif’s adeptness in balancing international relations, particularly with the United States and China, along with his likely pursuit of better ties with India.
Furthermore, AP emphasizes Sharif’s favorable prospects following Imran Khan’s imprisonment, suggesting a reversal of fortunes from the 2018 elections. US think tanks like the Brookings Institute and the Council on Foreign Relations echo this sentiment, foreseeing a return to power for Sharif and the PML-N.
Addressing the challenges awaiting the next leader, Sputnik mentions Pakistan’s severe economic crisis and escalating terrorism issue, which could impact its foreign policy. Telegraph portrays Sharif as anticipating a smooth victory rather than a close contest, as his main rival, Imran Khan, faces legal setbacks.
In sum, international observers anticipate Nawaz Sharif’s resurgence as Pakistan’s Prime Minister, marking a significant political comeback amidst a landscape of economic challenges and regional complexities.
