Lessons for people, politicians and establishment to grasp .
Youth Impact:
Funky music video titled “Vote Tey Chadiya, Vote Te Dala” was released 20 days before election to motivate young generation to participate in the February 8th elections. Despite the widespread anticipation of predetermined outcomes, this two-and-a-half-minute video, set to an infectious local hip-hop and rap tune, carries the message ‘Your voice matters!’ It showcases a diverse array of enthusiastic voters, aiming to mobilize the demographic that constitutes 64% of the nation’s population, according to UNDP data.
The country’s youth, encompassing millennials and Gen Z, grapple with escalating social, political, and economic hurdles. The exodus of over 750,000 individuals in 2022, followed by a surge to surpass 800,000 in the first half of 2023, underscores the challenges faced, including the departure of highly skilled professionals like doctors, engineers, IT experts, and accountants.
This growing youth demographic wields significant influence in the electoral process, engaging in grassroots campaigning, social media activism, and expressing dissatisfaction with the status quo. Many align themselves with Khan, utilizing the ballot box as a means to voice their discontent and effect change.

Social Media effectiveness.
In 2024, the old tactics of manipulating the media to control narratives are no longer effective. Social media has surpassed traditional electronic platforms, empowering individuals to challenge state oppression. The rise of former Prime Minister Imran Khan signifies a departure from the military’s historical dominance over Pakistani politics. Khan’s adoption of populist rhetoric, coupled with the mobilization of the country’s tech-savvy youth, has reshaped the political landscape.

Amid government censorship, Khan’s supporters utilized platforms like TikTok to disseminate campaign content. In response to rally restrictions, virtual gatherings became the norm. Even when Khan faced incarceration, his advocates employed artificial intelligence to replicate his voice, ensuring his message persisted despite adversity.

His success marked the first time in Pakistan’s recent history that the political strategy used by the country’s powerful military for decades to keep its grip on power had suddenly veered off course.
Political dynasties are at stake:
Leading up to the election, PML ‘N’ and Mr. Nawaz Sharif were perceived as favored by the establishment. However, despite his strongholds in Lahore and Abbottabad, where he contested election in two constituencies which were considered safe pockets of PML ‘N’ he experienced defeat in one and controversial win in the other. His party’s reliance on military backing became evident in this election, mirroring the situation of the Bhutto dynasty under Bilawal Bhutto Zardari leadership.

Though PPP securing 54 seats, their victories in Urban Sindh and Punjab are overshadowed by suspicions of establishment support. Even in their stronghold of Rural Sindh they are facing allegation of rigging from GDA and other parties.

The election outcome dealt a severe blow to the image of both dynasties, casting doubt on their credibility and longevity. Though their political careers may not be definitively over, the erosion of their legacy appears inevitable without a strategic shift. This election signifies a turning point for Sharif’s party and Zardari’s party now perceived as revolving entirely around the Sharif and Zardari families, potentially heralding the start of their decline.
Maturity prevails
Imran Khan’s recent instructions to his party leaders to engage in dialogue with Molana Fazlur Rehman of Jamiat Ulama e Islam demonstrate a newfound maturity in his political approach, contrasting with his past policies of confrontation despite his widespread popularity. The message is clear: prioritizing dialogue over confrontation and embracing moderate politics over extremism is essential. Participation in the electoral process, parliamentary engagement, and dialogue with diverse political forces offer avenues for issue resolution. Without such constructive efforts, all endeavors risk being futile.

Popular leadership cannot be eliminated by establishment
Despite numerous leaders departing from Imran Khan’s camp, legal challenges and restrictions imposed on his party’s activities resulting in several workers being incarcerated, Khan emerged victorious in the elections. This pattern, seen from Z.A. Bhutto to Nawaz Sharif and now to Imran Khan, underscores a recurring theme that popular forces cannot be eliminated from scenario through state tyranny however, it’s a lamentable truth that the establishment’s failure to learn from historical lessons remains the most significant takeaway from Pakistan’s political history.

Future is in Democracy :
Under the governance of military-backed puppets, Pakistan’s future appears bleak, regardless of who holds power. These regimes often prioritize the interests of the military over the welfare of the people, leading to a lack of democratic accountability, economic stagnation, and social unrest.

The cycle of military intervention perpetuates instability and undermines the country’s progress towards genuine democracy and development. Without a shift towards civilian-led governance and respect for democratic principles, Pakistan’s trajectory remains uncertain and its potential unfulfilled.
The sooner the Pakistani establishment realizes, the better it is for them , for the people and for the future of Pakistan.
This is writing on the wall .