Premiership of Imran Khan

The premiership of Imran Khan began on 18 August 2018, after his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party secured a victory in the 2018 Pakistani general election. In his inaugural speeches, Khan articulated his vision of building Pakistan on the principles of the first Islamic state of Medina. His cabinet included former Musharraf-era ministers and former members of the Pakistan People's Party.

During his tenure, Khan's government launched major infrastructure and social programs, such as the Sehat Sahulat Program for free healthcare, and initiatives aimed at improving minority rights and promoting renewable energy. The Kartarpur Corridor, which allowed visa-free access for Indian Sikh pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, was a notable achievement. Environmental sustainability was also prioritized, with programs like the 10 Billion Tree Tsunami. However, Khan's leadership faced significant criticisms, particularly regarding a decline in press freedom in Pakistan, as multiple organizations accused his government of suppressing media outlets. Khan led accountability efforts, led by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), though they were criticized for being politically motivated and targeting opposition leaders.

Khan's leadership faced substantial challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic in Pakistan. His government initially resisted implementing a nationwide lockdown, instead opting for a "smart lockdown" approach, which faced criticism as infections surged and Pakistan's health system became overwhelmed. To counter the economic impact of the pandemic, Khan's government rolled out a welfare program targeting the country's poorest citizens. Despite the government's efforts, the pandemic contributed to a major economic downturn. However, by late 2020, Pakistan's economy began showing signs of recovery, although issues such as inflation, food security, and national debt remained pressing concerns. Khan's administration also sought international financial support, securing a $6 billion bailout from the IMF. While inflation and slow economic growth persisted for much of his tenure, GDP growth accelerated to 5.97% in his final year in office.

Khan's foreign policy focused on promoting nationalistic and independent stances, particularly on issues like Pakistan's role in the War on Terror, the Kashmir dispute with India, and strengthening regional relations, especially with Gulf Cooperation Council states. Khan's government was also vocal on global matters such as Islamophobia and Palestinian statehood. His tenure was marked by a controversial visit to Russia just before the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Furthermore, Khan's administration worked to meet international standards, particularly by enhancing Pakistan's anti-money laundering laws and addressing issues related to the FATF grey list. By 2021, Pakistan had largely complied with the FATF's requirements.

Khan was ousted on 10 April 2022, becoming the first Pakistani Prime Minister to be removed by a no-confidence vote. Despite Khan's allegations of foreign interference, particularly from the US, the National Security Council found no evidence of a conspiracy. His removal sparked protests, and he later moderated his stance on US relations, seeking to repair ties in November 2022.