Pakistan is gearing up for its 12th general elections scheduled for February 8, during which 128 million citizens can cast their votes to determine the next government and the legislatures of the nation’s four provinces.
This marks another significant step in Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen its democratic institutions. Historically, the country has faced periods of military rule, with the military establishment directly governing for over three decades since Pakistan gained independence in 1947.
As For The Mechanics Of The Upcoming February 8 Elections
The voting process will commence at 8 am local time (03:00 GMT) and will run continuously until 5 pm local time (12:00 GMT). Voters who are already in line by 5 pm will be permitted to cast their ballots, even if this extends the voting process. In the event of any disturbances or violence at polling stations, officials have the authority to extend voting hours to ensure all voters can exercise their rights.
Each voter will have the opportunity to cast two votes: one for the National Assembly and another for their respective provincial assembly. These elections are crucial as they will determine the government responsible for addressing the challenges facing Pakistan, including political volatility, escalating violence, and economic instability.
Following the conclusion of voting, the counting process will commence promptly, and tentative results are expected to be announced within a few hours.
Following the 2023 national census, a delimitation process was carried out, resulting in alterations to the boundaries of many constituencies and a change in the total number of seats in the National Assembly. The total number of seats has decreased from 272 to 266.
National Assembly Seats By Province
Here’s the breakdown:
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in the northwest saw an increase in seats from 39 to 45.
- Punjab, the largest province by population, retained its 141 seats, making it a significant battleground in the upcoming elections.
- Sindh, the second-most populous province, maintained its 61 seats.
- Balochistan, the largest but most impoverished province, also retained its previous allocation of 16 seats.
- The Islamabad Capital Territory continues to have three seats.
Furthermore, there are 60 seats reserved for women and 10 seats reserved for minorities. These reserved seats are allotted based on a proportional representation system, with 5 percent of seats in the National Assembly allocated for minorities.
Structure of Pakistan’s Parliamentary System
The Senate, serving as the upper house of Pakistan’s parliament, comprises 100 seats. Unlike the National Assembly, Senate members are not directly elected by the public; instead, they are chosen by the provincial assemblies. The Senate operates on a six-year tenure, with elections being staggered and held every three years.
The Senate, along with the National Assembly and the provincial assemblies, collectively forms the Electoral College responsible for electing Pakistan’s president.
Regarding Provincial Elections
In addition to the National Assembly elections, the assemblies of the four provinces – Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Sindh – will elect representatives who will then vote for a chief minister.
The distribution of seats in the provincial legislatures is proportionate to the population and representation of each province. Punjab, having the largest population, possesses the largest legislature with 371 seats. Sindh’s assembly consists of 168 seats, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 124 seats, and Balochistan with 65 seats.
Similar to the National Assembly, a portion of seats in the provincial legislatures is reserved for women and minorities. These reserved seats are allocated to parties based on their representation in the legislature.
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We stand firmly committed to supporting Pakistan’s democratic process in the upcoming 2024 elections. Every employee at Al Meraaj Marketing is encouraged to demonstrate patriotism by actively participating in the electoral process, contributing to the country’s betterment through responsible voting. With unwavering dedication, we strive to continuously support and enhance Pakistan’s development trajectory, ensuring a brighter future for all.
