Battle for the Diaspora: Pakistan Government Woos Expats to Break Imran Khan’s Clout
In the complex and ever-shifting landscape of Pakistani politics, one battleground has emerged as both vital and highly contested — the overseas Pakistani community. With millions of Pakistanis living abroad, sending billions in remittances and holding increasing influence on the country’s political discourse, it’s no surprise that this diaspora has become a strategic focus for both the current government and its political opponents. At the center of this tug-of-war is former Prime Minister Imran Khan, whose populist appeal and powerful social media presence have made him a favorite among overseas Pakistanis. Now, the current government is making calculated moves to chip away at Khan's dominance abroad. Why the Diaspora Matters Overseas Pakistanis, especially in the UK, US, Canada, and the Gulf, have historically played a crucial role in the nation’s economy and politics. In recent years, their voices have grown louder, thanks to social media platforms and the extension of voti...