Pakistan’s election may spell hope for Indian peace

The country of Pakistan recently underwent its election for Prime Minister.  The result of that election: The return to power of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.  Known for being an advocate of peaceful relations between Pakistan and India during his previous tenure, Sharif’s return could mean better times ahead between the two countries.  Some, however, are wondering whether Sharif has the power to do what he says he would like to do.

Sharif made his desire to obtain peace very public and has also been very vocal about his devotion to not letting terrorists maintain power in the country.  His party, the Pakistan Muslim League, dominated the elections, taking control of a vast majority of the assembly seats as well.  This means that Sharif has the potential to move ahead unhindered.

The main problem with the promises of peace and anti-terrorism is that many of Sharif’s main supporters are fundamentalist Islamic parties, including some with ties to the Taliban.  Some theorize that he may be being used by some of these parties so that religious elements within the country can have more control over the government, taking that power from the hands of Pakistan’s citizens.

There is also the very real chance that if Sharif moves forward with peace talks that any terrorist organization that wants to undo whatever he does can do this simply by performing another terrorist act.  In addition, Sharif has the military to contend with.  His previous run as Prime Minister was disrupted by a military coup and he may see conflict yet again.

Still, his presence within the government is a good reason to be hopeful and many in India, both citizen and official alike, have expressed their relief that he is the one in control of the country.  He was trusted to rule the country once before and has now been trusted again and, should things go well, India may finally have the peace it seeks.

Nawaz Sharif photo courtesy of Ahsan Nadeem via Wikicommons