PDM stands for Pakistan Democratic Movement, which is a coalition of 11 political parties that oppose the government of Imran Khan. The PDM was formed in September 2020, after the opposition accused Khan of rigging the 2018 general election, mismanaging the economy, and being a puppet of the military establishment.
The PDM has staged several protests and rallies across the country, demanding Khan’s resignation and fresh elections. The PDM has also challenged Khan’s legitimacy in the parliament, where he narrowly survived a vote of confidence in March 2021. The PDM claims to represent the voice of the people who are suffering from high inflation, unemployment, and poverty.
The PDM is led by Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, the chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUIF), a religious party. The other prominent leaders of the PDM include Nawaz Sharif, the former prime minister and leader of Pakistan Muslim League (PMLN), and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). The PDM also includes smaller parties such as Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PMAP), Qaumi Watan Party (QWP), Awami National Party (ANP), and others.
The PDM faces several challenges and divisions within its ranks. Some of its leaders, such as Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam Nawaz, are facing corruption charges and court cases. Some of its parties, such as PPP and ANP, have differences over the strategy and tactics of the movement. Some of its supporters, such as the urban middle class and the youth, are skeptical about the credibility and sincerity of the PDM leaders.
The PDM aims to restore democracy, civilian supremacy, and constitutional rule in Pakistan. It also seeks to improve the economic and social conditions of the masses. The PDM hopes to achieve its goals through peaceful and democratic means, without resorting to violence or confrontation with the state institutions.
