Historically, Pak­istan’s private sector, projecting a neutral image, preferred to watch electoral politics from a safe distance. This is not the case anymore.

In these changing times, as the country prepares for general elections next week, the business class, much like other segments of society, is engaged in the process.

The deep-seated culture of patronage thriving on personal relationships demands a closer nexus between businessmen and politicians.

Pakistani businessmen also extend support to candidates belonging to their ethnic, linguistic or religious community, irrespective of the party. While there might be a few who help aspiring politicians on ideological grounds; the majority, however, set aside some cash for anyone who knocks on their door close to elections.

And in the absence of guidelines on corporate political funding, companies in commercial and industrial hubs raise money collectively and disburse it quietly through middlemen amongst major parties on the basis of deals cut.

Read more here about the relationship between Pakistan's business and politics.