The private sector has a crucial role to play in embedding resilience, but it cannot do much without support from other sectors.
The article from Dawn discusses the ongoing political and economic challenges in Pakistan as of February 19, 2024. It highlights the recent elections where no single party secured a clear majority, leading to a hung parliament. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) are in discussions to form a coalition government, amidst allegations of electoral irregularities and rigging by various parties, including Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which claims its mandate was stolen. The economic situation remains dire with inflation rates soaring, foreign reserves dwindling, and the country facing potential default without further IMF support. The political instability has further complicated the economic recovery, with businesses and investors wary of the uncertain political landscape. Additionally, the article touches on the military's role in politics, with some parties accusing the establishment of influencing the election outcomes.