Nawaz Sharif Emerges as PM of Pakistan

Nawaz Sharif has declared victory in Pakistan’s landmark elections, putting him on course to form the next government as Prime Minister for a historic third term. The partial, unofficial results represent a remarkable comeback by PML(N), after nearly 60 percent of the 86 million electorate turned out to vote, defying polling day attacks that left 24 dead.
Nawaz Sharif gave a victory speech to hundreds of jubilant supporters at Pakistan Muslim League-N party headquarters in Lahore. “Results are still coming but there is a confirmation that PML-N will emerge as the largest party. We should thank Allah that he has given PML-N another chance to serve you and Pakistan… I appeal for all parties to come to the table and sit with me and solve the country’s problems”, he said.
The historic polls mark the first time an elected civilian administration completed a full term and handed power to another through the ballot box in a country where there have been three military coups and four military rulers. Chief Election Commissioner Fakharuddin Ebrahim said nearly 60 percent of the electorate voted, making it the highest turnout since 1977. He praised the authorities, the military and law enforcement agencies for cooperation “which enabled us to hold free and fair elections”.