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ccording to the media, despite terror threats and a worsening situation, large numbers of people cast their votes in recent elections in Pakistan.

Voter turnout was higher than 60 percent, a record in the country's history.

The recent election in Pakistan also proves that a majority of people in the country have rejected the militants' agenda and want peace and democracy in their country.

Despite a deteriorating security situation and several attacks so many people cast their votes, credit should go to the army chief of staff.

The Pakistani army deployed more than 70,000 personnel in sensitive locations.

The high turnout also proves that the people want real change in the country and want relief in their lives.

Several big names who were part of the last government lost their seats because of the poor performance and the economic and power crises.

Now Nawaz Sharif has almost swept the polls and will be the next prime minister of Pakistan. The reality is that public expectations are very high.

The people find it hard to provide the daily necessities of life for their families, the tough economic and security situation will be
a big test for the new government.

Khawaja Umer Farooq
Jeddah