The stunning election success of a party whose leader is in jail has set off a political crisis in Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation of 240 million people.
The stakes are high: Pakistanis face soaring inflation and costs of living, frequent blackouts, resurgent terrorist attacks and tense relations with their neighbors.
Imran Khan: The jailed leaderImran Khan, a former prime minister and cricket star, has been sentenced to 34 years in prison on charges that include leaking state secrets and unlawful marriage.
He is barred from holding office, and his supporters call the charges, which he denies, an effort by the military to silence its leading critic.
In the election last week, candidates aligned with Mr. Khan won more seats in Parliament than any other group — but still fell short of forming a majority on their own.
Persons:
Imran Khan, Mr, Khan
Locations:
Pakistan