Shehbaz Sharif, the newly appointed Prime Minister of Pakistan, faces a daunting array of challenges in his bid to steer the country out of crisis. Pakistan is grappling with resurgent terrorism, heightened political divisions, widespread public discontent, and a severe economic downturn.
Navigating through these turbulent times will be no easy feat for Sharif, especially as he leads a fragile coalition government and contends with a formidable opposition that rejects his administration's legitimacy. The political breathing space essential for addressing Pakistan's myriad crises may prove elusive, considering the historical precedent of prime ministers failing to complete their full terms in office.
However, prematurely writing off Sharif's prospects would be hasty, as he and his government have significant strengths to draw upon. Sharif enjoys amicable relations with the military, a crucial ally in Pakistan's political landscape. Unlike some of his predecessors, Sharif is inclined towards cooperation rather than confrontation with the military establishment. This alignment extends across various policy domains, from economic recovery efforts to foreign relations and national security priorities.
Moreover, Sharif's coalition is relatively insulated from disruptive tactics by the opposition, particularly the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which lacks the same leverage it once had. With his rivals marginalized and support from key international partners, including crucial donors and allies, Sharif's government stands a good chance of securing vital economic assistance, potentially including a crucial IMF loan.
Nonetheless, Sharif's fortunes remain precarious, with numerous potential pitfalls looming on the horizon. Tensions within the coalition, exacerbated by public dissatisfaction with austerity measures, could strain the government's stability. Likewise, the delicate balance in civil-military relations could unravel under certain circumstances, such as disagreements over the pace and scope of structural reforms.
The influence of Sharif's brother, Nawaz, adds another layer of complexity to the political landscape. Nawaz's return to Pakistan signals his continued involvement in shaping government policy, potentially introducing conflicting agendas that could test Shehbaz's leadership.
Central to Shehbaz Sharif's tenure will be his management of Pakistan's economic challenges, a task fraught with competing interests and expectations. Balancing the imperative of implementing reforms to secure donor support and long-term economic stability with the need to appease entrenched interests and public sentiment will require deft political maneuvering.
Amidst these challenges, Shehbaz Sharif finds himself embroiled in a power struggle between the military and imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan. As the military asserts its authority and seeks to quell dissent, Sharif must navigate the delicate balance of consolidating his government's position while confronting opposition forces both within and outside the political arena.
In the face of relentless opposition and internal divisions, Sharif's reliance on the military to maintain stability underscores the fragility of his government and the formidable obstacles ahead.