Major political parties in the country are ramping up their election campaigns in the lead up to the February 8 general elections. The PML-N and PPP held large gatherings, while the PTI’s rallies were disrupted by police. PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif promised to create job opportunities and provide educational tools for the country’s youth, expressing regret at the current state of Pakistan. Meanwhile, PPP’s Asif Zardari emphasized the need for genuine political forces to address the country’s issues, pledging development projects for Balochistan. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari promised to combat all terrorists and rid the country of economic, democratic, and social crises. In addition, PTI unveiled their election manifesto, which promised social and constitutional reforms, including a truth and reconciliation commission, reforms in the tax scheme, implementation of solar energy projects, introduction of a universal health card, educational reforms, and values to be taught to the youth. The manifesto also emphasized the need to get rid of corruption and have a foreign policy based on equality with other countries.