Weaponizing Religion in Pakistani Politics: A Decades-Old Tactic Gets Increasingly Extreme
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Religion has long been misused in Pakistani politics to attack opponents and consolidate power, with tactics becoming more extreme over time.
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Parties yield to right-wing religious groups to avoid losing votes, even if it means backtracking on progressive legislation.
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Blasphemy allegations and laws have become a lethal election weapon used by parties against rivals.
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No party can resist the temptation to use religion, and society is becoming more conservative, reinforcing the trend.
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This divisive tactic is not expected to fall out of favor anytime soon.