Old allies like the military have turned against him, but the former prime minister’s appeal on the street has only grown stronger, setting up a dangerous showdown.
Mr. Khan’s party has had a comeback since he was ousted this year. He’s now facing charges of violating a terrorism law after he threatened to sue government officials.
With fiery critiques of his rivals and the U.S., the former prime minister has drawn thousands to rallies across Pakistan and stoked fears of more political turmoil.
Mr. Sharif, whose family has been dogged by accusations of graft for decades, was selected by Pakistan’s Parliament at a time of deep political divisions and economic tumult.