Pakistan Heads Into Its Most Controversial Election in Years
- Vote crucial for U.S., China ties as IMF bailout looks likely
- Military looms large as polls show possible hung parliament
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Pakistanis are voting today in a closely fought election that will determine the course of the nuclear-armed nation central to U.S. anti-terrorism efforts and China’s global infrastructure ambitions.
Surveys show none of the top three parties winning a majority, paving the way for horse-trading to form a government after results come in late tonight. Pakistan’s powerful military -- which has ruled for much of the nation’s history -- has faced accusations during the campaign of intimidating critics and reporters to elect a pliant government. It has denied the allegations.