An Assessment Of Electoral Reforms In Pakistan (2018- 2022)

Abstract

Free, fair and transparent electoral processes strengthen democratic norms and institutions in a state. Since 2008, Pakistan has held three elections (2008, 2013, 2018), in which power has been successfully transferred from one civilian government to another. However, in recent years, issues regarding electoral reforms in Pakistan have increasingly become divisive and prominent. Serious differences that emerged between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) led Government and opposition on electoral reforms raised two major questions? One; why Election Commission of Pakistan raised observations on the use of technology in upcoming general elections? Two; what is the stance of government and opposition on electoral reforms and how it impacts democratic norms? The study is done mostly on the principle of mix methodology. Primary and secondary sources have been critically analysed to understand viewpoints of political elites and examine different obstacles in the way of effective performance of ECP. The article will conclude with the recommendations for smooth and fair implementation of electoral reforms.