A Critical Discourse Analysis of Imran Khan and Nawaz Sharif’s Speeches using Fairclough’s Tri-Dimensional Model

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze political discourse using a mixed-method approach that combined both qualitative and quantitative analyses to investigate the discursive techniques used by two well-known Pakistani political personalities, Imran Khan and Nawaz Sharif. For this critical discourse analysis, Fairclough’s tri-dimensional model was used. Two speeches from each leader were analyzed, and language patterns were measured statistically using AntConc software. In his speeches, Imran Khan typically discussed economic stability and development initiatives, arguing that these were crucial to Pakistan's progress. Nawaz Sharif, on the other hand, highlights the sacrifices made by the people in the past and argued that they were essential to the development of the country in the future. Using Fairclough's paradigm, the qualitative analysis explored the texts to show how linguistic decisions worked as texts, discursive practices, and social practices. Nawaz Sharif's speech tended towards historical tales and resiliency, whereas Imran Khan's language was more in line with economic pragmatism and regional cooperation. The study clarified the complex ways in which political figures create narratives to sway public opinion and further their goals for the prosperity of the country.