That is an understatement. Officials cited Ramadan, the Muslim fasting month, and cold weather as reasons for the poor showing. More likely it was frustration. Bhutto's erstwhile backers apparently stayed home. Some are calling for a referendum on whether Pakistan should adopt a presidential system.
Nawaz aides say that such sweeping reforms are still mostly talk.
The economy is a far more pressing concern. The government is heading for bankruptcy. The government collects next to no taxes. Nawaz says he won't cut defense spending or default on loans. Exports are flat.