INTERNATIONAL BRIEFS: Bhutto defeated by Muslim party candidate in Pakistan

On Monday, Nawaz Sharif claimed an election victory over Benazir Bhutto for the office of prime minister. Although Bhutto's previous term was cut short by President Leghari on accusations of corruption, she was allowed to run again for another five-year term. Sharif's own term as prime minister was cut short in 1993, on charges of dishonesty.

Reports from poll workers shows that in addition to Sharif's victory, his Pakistan Muslim Party won a majority in the 217-seat National Assembly.

However, independent election observers noticed general apathy among the Pakistani voter population. There was only a 26 percent turnout in parliamentary elections, which is a record low. Some perceive this as a reflection of widespread despair over the state of Pakistani democracy.

Source: Houston Chronicle, Feb. 4.

This item appeared in the News section of the February 7, 1997 issue.

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