Pakistan replaces ousted PM

Pakistan’s lower house of parliament has elected veteran politician Shahid Khaqan Abbasi as the country’s new prime minister, less than a week after the Supreme Court disqualified thrice-elected Nawaz Sharif for concealing assets.

Mr Abbasi, a member of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League party, got 221 votes in the 342-member National Assembly.

Mr Sharif’s party wants Mr Abbasi to serve as an interim premier until Mr Sharif’s younger brother, Shahbaz Sharif wins a seat in a by-election.

Mr Abbasi said “The process of democracy is back on track” and rejected claims he would only serve as a placeholder for Shahbaz Sharif.

The opposition has criticised this intention as dynastic and undemocratic.

The next general election is due to take place in June 2018.