Imran Khan, the jailed former Prime Minister of Pakistan, used an AI-generated video to claim victory in the general election. His claim followed a similar victory assertion by his rival, Nawaz Sharif, despite incomplete vote counts.

The ex-cricket star’s AI video hit social media on Friday, igniting controversy as the election wrapped up. Khan urged his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party’s independent candidates to celebrate and disputed Sharif’s early victory claim, calling him dishonourable.

A crackdown had forced many PTI candidates to run as independents, arresting leaders and curtailing campaign activities.
By Friday night, with nearly all votes counted, PTI-backed independents had won 95 seats, while Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League (PML) captured 66. A total of 169 seats is necessary for a majority in the 336-seat assembly.

Pakistan’s army chief, General Syed Asim Munir, praised the election’s execution and stressed the need for “stable hands” to address “anarchy and polarization.” He called for political unity and maturity to serve the nation and strengthen democracy.

EU, UK, and US observers doubted the election’s integrity, calling for inquiries into the alleged irregularities. Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron expressed “serious concerns” about its fairness and inclusivity, pointing to military interference and vote-rigging.

Authorities imposed restrictions on PTI, including police blockades and a ban on its cricket bat emblem, hindering voter assistance for the illiterate.

These events have overshadowed Pakistan’s democracy, amplifying demands for a clear investigation into the election’s fairness.