Things that happen in our neighbourhood are always a matter of keen interest to us – what happens in Pakistan is of utmost interest to us: elections, coups, military dictatorships and now cricket players who become PMs! Indians have always been fascinated by the handsome, suave, urbane Imran Khan; the only Pakistani cricket captain to have won the world cup and also the man who seemed irresistible to women. Now that he has been swept to power by the people of Pakistan, our fascination seems to have grown and everyone seems to have an opinion on whether Khan will be good for Indo-Pak relations.
His love life was always great fodder for the tabloids: his dalliances with Indian stars such as Zeenat Aman, his alleged love child with Sita White, his three marriages and two divorces have been well documented. Now with the revelations from the book of his second wife British Pak journalist Reham Khan, the lascivious interest in Khan's life has never been higher.
It is highly unusual that a sportsperson not only enters politics but also stays committed to it and goes on to be elected to the top spot in the country. However Khan has stayed committed to politics since 1996 when he founded the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party (PTI).
Like this tweet by former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, many have spoken about Khan’s cricket playing days; when he was arguably one of the top all-rounders in the world and formed a part of one of the most formidable pace attacks in the world.
The speech Imran Khan addressed to the nation after winning the elections has been praised for being pro-poor and pro welfare. People in Pakistan have also welcomed the verdict of the people; viewing Khan as a welcome alternative to the corrupt dynastic politics of the country.
Amidst the huge amounts of controversy surrounding the many allegations made by his second wife (now divorced) Reham Khan in her book, his first wife Jemima tweeted to wish him good luck.
Many people have welcomed the fact that in his victory speech, Imran Khan spoke about trying to improve relations with India – that if India took one step forward Pakistan would take two.
Many have welcomed Khan’s comments about bringing peace to the subcontinent though some have expressed skepticism that this is mere posturing and grandstanding; the reality born out of political compulsions will be different.
Imran Khan is seen to have the blessings of the powerful Pakistan army; which has in the past staged several military coups to defeat the democratic process in Pakistan. Many commentators feel that Khan is going to be a puppet for the army which will be calling the shots in reality.
Though the victory is a significant one, Khan will still have to find allies to form a coalition government in the country.
Even as he takes over as PM of the country, Khan will face many challenges. There are charges of election rigging which he has to face. Currently, he will have to take charge of a divided populace and make the best of a difficult situation.
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