Shehbaz Sharif sworn in as Pakistan’s prime minister after contentious vote

In this photo released by the Pakistan's President Office, President Arif Alvi, right, administers the oath of office to newly elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during a ceremony at the Presidential Palace, in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 4, 2024. Lawmakers in Pakistan's National Assembly have elected Sharif for a comeback term as the country's prime minister, as allies of imprisoned former premier Imran Khan in parliament shouted in protest, alleging rigging in last month's election. (Pakistan's President Office via AP)
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AP: Sharif pledged to perform his duties and functions with honesty and loyalty and always for the country’s independence, “integrity, stability, and for the sake of unity.”

 

But stability and unity are in short supply in Pakistani politics, and Sharif has a tough task of bringing lawmakers together to steer the country through challenging times.

 

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The first two sessions of parliament have been chaotic and noisy, with the opposition shouting and jeering at the new government because of their election grievances.

 

Sharif is the 24th prime minister in Pakistan’s 77-year history.

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