The months leading up to the Feb 8 general elections witnessed crucial developments in the country’s political sphere — the return of PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif after a four-year exile, the incarceration of PTI founder Imran Khan and the subsequent dismantling of his party.

The developments were followed by the withdrawal of the PTI’s ‘bat’ electoral symbol, which has resulted in candidates contesting the polls as independents and the party losing out on reserved seats.

With the February 8 elections just a day away, political activity in the country has reached fever pitch after a sluggish start. Campaigning ceased yesterday at midnight. For seasoned politicians, the election season is business as usual.

However, due to the PTI’s predicament, there have emerged a number of unexpected candidates contesting this year’s polls as the party tries to circumvent the obstacles in its path.

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