ABSTRACT
This chapter examines from three different but overlapping perspectives such as neo-realist, liberalism and social constructivist to show how and why Pakistan-US relations influences Pakistani body politics. The post-election euphoria evaporated and was replaced by anger against the United States and the Khyber Pukhtunkhwa government; a coalition led by the Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI), blockaded North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) supplies from entering the province. The chapter shows how and to what degree of prevalence did the many aspects of Pakistan-US relations frame the election campaign of 2013 and what constraints they impose on the government of Nawaz Sharif. The fear of a coup has hamstrung the Nawaz Sharif administration forcing it to concede control of the security agenda to the army. President Manmoom Hussain is a titular figure, with the Sharif clan being all-powerful and the Sharif brothers are deeply distrusted by the army who fear they may exact revenge for the putsch that removed them from power.
