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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Delimitation of constituencies.
1) For the purpose of election to the National Assembly, the Commission shall divide:
(a) each Province into as many separate territorial constituencies as the
number of general seats allocated to that Province in Article 51;
and
2
[(b) Islamabad Capital Territory into as many separate territorial
constituencies as the number of general seats allocated thereto in
Article 51.]
(2) A Province shall be a single constituency for all seats reserved for
women which are allocated to each Province in Article 51.
(3) The constituency for all seats reserved for non-Muslims in the
National Assembly shall be the whole country.
(4) For the purpose of election to Provincial Assemblies, the
Commission shall divide each Province into as many separate territorial
constituencies as the number of general seats specified in Article 106.
(5) The constituencies for the seats reserved for women and nonMuslims in the Provincial Assemblies shall be such that each Province forms one
constituency with as many such seats as are allocated to that Province in Article
106.
(6) For the purpose of election to the local governments, the
Commission shall carry out delimitation with due regard to the applicable local
government law.
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 19: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population b . Respecting natural barriers c . Compactness of constituencies d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries e . Geographic size of district g . Other
Comments: All constituencies for general seats shall, as far as practicable, be delimited having regard to the distribution of population in geographically compact areas, physical features, existing boundaries of administrative units, facilities of communication and public convenience and other cognate factors to ensure homogeneity in the creation of constituencies.
Save as provided in clause (3) in respect of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, the seats in the National Assembly shall be allocated to each province and the Federal Capital on the basis of population in accordance with the last preceding census officially published:
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 20: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Constitution, art. 51 (5): https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
e . Electoral Management Body (EMB)
Comments: The Election Commission of Pakistan.
The Commission shall delimit territorial constituencies for elections to the National Assembly, each Provincial Assembly and to the local governments in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, this Act, the Rules and the applicable local
government law.
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 17: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
a . Head of State is the Head of Government c . Directly elected in general elections (absolute majority with 2nd round if necessary)
Comments: There shall be a President of Pakistan who shall be the Head of State and shall represent the unity of the Republic.
The President shall be elected in accordance with the provisions of the Second Schedule by the members of an electoral college consisting of:
the members of both Houses; and
the members of the Provincial Assemblies.
Source: Constitution, art. 41: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
b . Directly elected in general elections, absolute majority (with 2nd round if necessary)
Comments: The Prime Minister shall be elected by the votes of the majority of the total membership of the National Assembly:
Provided that, if no member secures such majority in the first poll, a second poll shall be held between the members who secure the two highest numbers of votes in the first poll and the member who secures a majority of votes of the members present and voting shall be declared to have been elected as Prime Minister:
Provided further that, if the number of votes secured by two or more members securing the highest number of votes is equal, further poll shall be held between them until one of them secures a majority of votes of the members present and voting.
Source: Constitution, art. 91: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: There shall be a President of Pakistan who shall be the Head of State and shall represent the unity of the Republic.
Source: Constitution, art. 41: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
b . Two chambers
Comments: There shall be a Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) of Pakistan consisting of the President and two Houses to be known respectively as the National Assembly and the Senate.
Source: Constitution, art. 50: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments:
Source: Constitution, art. 51: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
e . Hare
Comments:
Source: www.ipu.prg/parline (Indonesia Electoral System)
Verified: 2024/01/31
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2002/06/18
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments:
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Constitution: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
The Constitution, Art. 50, 51, 52;
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
The Delimitation of Constituencies Act 1974;
https://pakvoter.org/wp-content/pdfs/Pakistan%20Election%20Laws/THE%20DELIMITATION%20OF%20CONSTITUENCIES%20ACT%2C%201974.pdf
The Political Parties Rule 2002
https://ecp.gov.pk/the-political-parties-rules-2002
Verified: 2024/11/25
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
b . January 1990- December 1999
Comments: The Constitution was last amended in 1999
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/18
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections
Comments:
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 19: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: No reference that mandates compulsory voting.
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Constitution: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
LF005
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer:
c . National elections are held on the same day as regional elections only
Comments: National and regional(provincial) elections are required to be held on the same day.
Source: Representation of the People«s Act, 1976.
Verified: 2001/07/17
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary
Comments: Appointment of Election Tribunals. (1) For the trial of election petitions under this Act, the Commission shall appoint as many Election Tribunals as may be necessary for swift disposal of election petitions
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 141: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
e . Electoral Management Body
Comments: The EMB appoints judges from the High Courts to form special Election Tribunals if complaints are filed.
Source: Representation of the People's Act, 1976
General Election Report, Election Commission of pakistan, 1997, chapter XXIX, art 8-9
Verified: 2002/06/18
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates
Comments:
Source: Represenation of the People's Act, 1976
Verified: 2002/06/18
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments:
Source: Section 67 (3) of the Representation of the People's Act, 1976
Verified: 2002/06/18
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
a . Election Management Body b . Legislative Committee c . Government
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/18
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level b . Regional level c . Local level
Comments: It shall be the duty of the Election Commission to organize and conduct the election and to make such arrangements as are necessary to ensure that the election is conducted honestly, justly, fairly and in accordance with law, and that corrupt practices are guarded against.
The Commission shall be charged with the duty of-
preparing electoral rolls for election to the National Assembly, Provincial Assemblies and local governments, and revising such rolls periodically to keep them up-to-date;
organizing and conducting election to the Senate or to fill casual vacancies in a House or a Provincial Assembly; and
appointing Election Tribunals;
the holding of general elections to the National Assembly, Provincial Assemblies and the local governments; and
such other functions as may be specified by an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament):
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 3: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Constitution, art. 219: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Election Commission of Pakistan Official Website: http://www.ecp.gov.pk/Aboutus.aspx (2012)
https://www.ecp.gov.pk/
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: It is an independent constitutional organisation.
Source: Mohammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/18
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: The remuneration payable to the Commissioner, members and other officers and staff of the Commission and all administrative expenses and other expenditure relating to the Commission shall be expenditure charged upon the Federal Consolidated Fund, within the meaning of Article 81.
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 11: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Constitution, art. 81: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
h . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: The Commissioner and a member shall, subject to this Article, hold office for a term of five years from the day he enters upon his office:
Source: Constitution, Article 218, 215; https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
d . Presidential/ Prime Minister appointment
Comments: No person shall be appointed to be commissioner unless he is, or has been, a judge of the Supreme Court or is, or has been, a judge of a High Court.
Source: Constitution, article 213
Verified: 2002/06/18
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
b . Independent
Comments: The Election Commission shall consist of-
the Commissioner who shall be Chairman of the Commission; and
four members, one from each Province, each of whom shall be a person who has been a judge of a High Court or has been a senior civil servant or is a technocrat and is not more than sixty-five years of age, to be appointed by the President in the manner provided for appointment of the Commissioner in clauses (2A) and (2B) of Article 213.
Source: Election Commission of Pakistan Official Website: https://www.ecp.gov.pk/overview-of-ecp
Constitution, art. 218: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: 5 members: The Election Commission consists of the Chief Election Commissioner who shall be the chairman and 4 members each of whom shall be a judge from each Province.
Source: Constitution, art. 218: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: There shall be a Chief Election Commissioner (in this Part referred to as the Commissioner), who shall be appointed by the President.
No person shall be appointed to be Commissioner unless he has been a Judge of the Supreme Court or has been a senior civil servant or is a technocrat and is not more than sixty-eight years of age.
The Prime Minister shall in consultation with the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, forward three names for appointment of the Commissioner to a Parliamentary Committee for hearing and confirmation of any one person.
Source: Constitution, art. 213, 215 and 218: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Election Commission of Pakistan Official Website:https://www.ecp.gov.pk/overview-of-ecp
Verified: 2024/11/25
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State b . Head of Government e . Legislature i . Other
Comments: There shall be a Chief Election Commissioner (in this Part referred to as the Commissioner), who shall be appointed by the President.
The Prime Minister shall in consultation with the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, forward three names for appointment of the Commissioner to a Parliamentary Committee for hearing and confirmation of any one person.
Source: Constitution, art. 213, 215, 218: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Pakistan_2017
Election Commission of Pakistan Official Website: http://www.ecp.gov.pk/Aboutus.aspx (2012)
Verified: 2024/11/25
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body g . NGOs/ Civic Organizations i . Media
Comments: The Election Commission conducts information campaigns. According to the EU Election Observation Mission Final Report of the General Elections (2018), civil society organizations and media also contributed.
Source: Election Commission of Pakistan Official Website: http://www.ecp.gov.pk/ (2012)
EU Election Observation Mission Final Report of the General Elections (2018)
https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/final_report_pakistan_2018_english_0.pdf
Verified: 2024/01/31
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
b . Election time only
Comments: According to the EU Election Observation Mission Final Report of the General Elections (2018), the Election Commission's voter information campaign was visible in broadcast media only one week before election day.
Source: Election Commission of Pakistan Official Website: http://www.ecp.gov.pk/ (2012)
EU Election Observation Mission Final Report of the General Elections (2018)
https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/final_report_pakistan_2018_english_0.pdf
Verified: 2024/01/31
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
a . No
Comments:
Source: Election Commission of Pakistan Official Website: http://www.ecp.gov.pk/ (2012)
Verified: 2024/01/31
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
c . Women
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/18
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments: A person shall be entitled to vote if he is not less than eighteen years of age.
Source: Constitution, Αrt. 51 (2)
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
Verified: 2024/01/31
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship e . Other
Comments: A person shall be entitled to vote if--
(a) he is a citizen of Pakistan
(b) he is not less than eighteen years of age
(c) his name appears on the electoral roll
(d) he is not declared by a competent court to be unsound mind
Source: Constitution, Αrt. 51 (2)
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
Verified: 2024/01/31
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
d . Mental disability
Comments: Declared to be of unsound mind by a competent court.
Source: The Electoral Rolls Act, 1974
Constitution, part III, article 51(2)
Verified: 2002/06/18
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: The Chief Election Commissioner and the Election Commission
Source: The Electoral Rolls Act, 1974
Constitution, Art. 219
Verified: 2024/01/31
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments:
Source: The Electoral Rolls Act, 1974
Constitution, part VIII, article 219
Verified: 2002/06/18
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
b . Annually
Comments: The Constitution envisages that the Chief Election Commissioner shall revise the electoral rolls annually.
Source: Constitution, part VIII, article 219
Verified: 2002/06/18
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
a . Links to national population records e . Appearance by voter at registration office f . Door-to-door registration campaign
Comments: Door-to-door registration is exceptional. Usually draft lists are prepared from census records and then updated through appearance at the registration.
Source: The Electoral Rolls Act, 1974.
Verified: 2001/07/17
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: A person, who is a citizen of Pakistan, is not less than 18 years of age on the first day of January of the year in which the rolls are prepared or revised, is not declared by a competent court to be of unsound mind and is or is deemed to be a resident of an electroal area, can get himself enrolled as a voter in that electoral area.
Source: The Electoral Rolls Act 1974
https://pakvoter.org/wp-content/pdfs/Pakistan%20Election%20Laws/THE%20ELECTORAL%20ROLLS%20ACT%201974.pdf
Official webiste of Election Commission of Pakistan: https://ecp.gov.pk/election-laws-eligibility-to-be-a-voter
Verified: 2024/01/31
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
b . Deposit requirement (specify amount) e . Minimum number of candidates f . Other
Comments: To register with the Electoral Commission, a political party must show at least 2,000 members, pay PKR 200,000 in registration fees, and certify various matters including non-receipt of foreign funding.
Source: EU Election Observation Mission Final Report (2018): https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/final_report_pakistan_2018_english_0.pdf
Representation of the People Act 1976;
https://pakvoter.org/wp-content/pdfs/Pakistan%20Election%20Laws/THE%20REPRESENTATION%20OF%20THE%20PEOPLE%20ACT.pdf
The Political Parties Rules 2002
https://ecp.gov.pk/the-political-parties-rules-2002
Verified: 2024/02/05
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
d . No registration required
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship f . Registration h . Minimum level of education j . Other
Comments: a) At least 25 years old;
h) To Possess at least a bachelor’s degree in any discipline or any degree recognized as equivalent;
j) Be of good character and not commonly known as one who violates Islamic injunctions. Have adequate knowledge of Islamic teachings and practice obligatory duties prescribed by Islam as well as abstain from major sins. Be sagacious, righteous and non-profligate and honest.
The non-Muslim candidates have been exempted from possessing the two first qualifications listed but they must bear good moral reputation.
Source: Constitution, Art. 62
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
Representation of People Act 1976, Art. 99
https://pakvoter.org/wp-content/pdfs/Pakistan%20Election%20Laws/THE%20REPRESENTATION%20OF%20THE%20PEOPLE%20Rules%201977.pdf
Election Commission of Pakistan
https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/1/eleclaws18.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/05
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship f . Registration
Comments: ) The minimum age is 25 years.
j) Be of good character and not commonly known as one who violates Islamic injunctions.
Have adequate knowledge of Islamic teachings and practice obligatory duties prescribed by Islam as well as abstain from major sins.
Be sagacious, righteous and non-profligate and honest.
The non-Muslim candidates have been exempted from possessing the two first qualifications listed but they must bear good moral reputation.
Source: Constitution, article 62
Representation of People Act 1976, subsection 1 of section 99
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship f . Registration
Comments: a) The minimum age is 45 years.
j) Be a Muslim, and qualified to be elected as a member of the National Assembly.
Source: Constitution, chapter 1, article 41
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Criminal record e . Offences against electoral law f . Holding of military office g . Holding of government office i . Unpaid debt k . Mental health problems o . Other
Comments: c) Crime involving moral turpitude or giving false evidence sentenced to imprisonment for a team of not less than 2 years unless a period of 5 years has elapsed since the release.
n) Has been removed or compulsory retired from the service of Pakistan on the ground of misconduct unless a period of 3 years has elapsed.
Source: The Representation of the People's Act, 1976
Constitution, article 63
Representation of the People Act 1976, sub-section 1A of section 99
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
c . Criminal record e . Offences against electoral law g . Holding of government office k . Mental health problems o . Not applicable
Comments: c) Crime involving moral turpitude or giving false evidence sentenced to imprisonment for a team of not less than 2 years unless a period of 5 years has elapsed since the release.
o) Has been removed or compulsory retired from the service of Pakistan on the ground of misconduct unless a period of 3 years has elapsed.
Source: Constitution, article 63
Representation of People Act 1976, subsection 1A of section 99
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
e . In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments: Independent candidates compete in both elections.
Source: The Representation of People Act 1976, Art. 12, 20A
https://pakvoter.org/wp-content/pdfs/Pakistan%20Election%20Laws/THE%20REPRESENTATION%20OF%20THE%20PEOPLE%20Rules%201977.pdf
Constitution, Art. 51
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/05
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
c . No registration requirement
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
c . No registration requirement
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
c . No registration requirement
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
a . No
Comments: International IDEA Political Finance Database 2021 says no public funding is available and there are no criteria for funding.
Source: International IDEA Political Finance Database (2021): https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=169&database_theme=302
Political Finance and Public Funding of Political Parties in Pakistan (2023): https://library.fes.de/pdf-files/bueros/pakistan/20160-20230331.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/05
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments: Political parties are not entitled to public funding.
Source: International IDEA Political Finance Database (2021): https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=169&database_theme=302
Political Finance and Public Funding of Political Parties in Pakistan (2023): https://library.fes.de/pdf-files/bueros/pakistan/20160-20230331.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/05
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: The political parties are not required to be registered.
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The complete dependence on private funding leaves the Pakistani politicians and political parties' prone to eploiting the loopholes in the law to meet their burgeoning financial needs.
Source: Final Report 2018 on EU Observation of Election Pakistan https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/final_report_pakistan_2018_english_0.pdf
The Political Parties Rules 2002: http://www.ecp.gov.pk/ElectionLaws/PoliticalPartiesRules2002.aspx (2012)
Verified: 2024/02/05
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments: Parties can recieve private funding at anytime, there are no regulations.
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments: There are no regulations on party funding.
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/18
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments: No regulations on candidate funding.
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: There are no party or candidate funding regulations.
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2023/09/28
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) d . Categorical (only one mark allowed) g . Different ballots used in different constituencies i . Party symbols in black and white m . Organized alphabetically o . Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official r . Other
Comments: o.)Names and symbols of the candidates.
r.)Ballots are stamped with code numbers and initialed by polling officials.
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) g . Different ballots used in different constituencies l . No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names m . Organized alphabetically r . Other
Comments: r.)The candidates names are mentioned on the ballot papers.
Source: The Senate (Elections) Act, 1975.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed) d . Categorical (only possible to make one mark) f . Same ballot papers used nation-wide l . No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names m . Organized alphabetically
Comments:
Source: Presidential Elections Rules, 1988.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: The Presiding Officer shall count the votes immediately after the close of the poll in the presence of such of
the contesting candidates, election agents, polling agents and authorized observers as may be present.
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 90 (1): https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
a . Separate ballots for different elections b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box c . Tally of voters who voted d . Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters e . Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused) f . Each ballot paper held up for public scrutiny, with name of party/candidate called out loud h . Double tallying as voters are being called out i . Tallying by party representative and/or observers as votes are being called out j . Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate l . Counted by hand p . Copies of results of the count are publicly posted at the counting site immediately on the completion of the count q . Copies of results are provided to observers r . Observers and party agents are permitted to take their own copies of the results
Comments:
Source: Representation of the PeopleÇs Act 1976.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
d . Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: d) Constituency.
The results are sent by the Presiding Officers to the Returning Officers (sub-district level) and then passed on to the constituency for final consolidation.
Source: Representation of the People's Act 1976
General Election Report 1997, Election Commission of Pakistan, chapter XXI, article 3
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
c . Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: c.) Constituency level
Source: The Delimitation of Constituencies Act, 1974.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported b . By telephone c . By fax
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People's Act, 1976
General Election Report 1997, Election Commission of Pakistan, chapter XXI, article 10
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
a . Ballots b . Unused and spoiled ballots c . Counterfoils of used ballots d . Voter rolls e . Tendered ballots f . Certificate of result g . Ballot boxes
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People«s Act, 1976.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
b . Tamper proof bags c . Signatures on sealed envelopes e . Accompanied by election officials g . Accompanied by military personnel h . Accompanied by police or other security personnel
Comments: The polling results are either transported by police or military personel.
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request f . Other
Comments: The Presiding Officer may recount the votes if he considers it
necessary—
(a) of his own motion; or
(b) upon the request of a contesting candidate, an election agent or a
polling agent present:
Provided that the recount shall be made by the Presiding Officer only once.
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 90 (6): https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
b . An individual candidate
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People«s Act, 1976.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
h . Courts i . Other
Comments: i) The Returning Officer or the District Returning Officer can order or recount the votes.
Source: Representation of the People's Act, 1976
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People«s Act, 1976.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The law requires to declare results as soon as possible.
Source: Representation of the People's Act, 1976
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments: b) 3-7 days. The consolidation proceedings are held by the Returning Officers.
Source: Section 39 of the Representation of the People's Act, 1976
Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments: No print, electronic or digital media shall run campaigns of candidates and political parties at the cost of the public exchequer.
Source: Code of Conduct for National Media 2023: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/3/CODE%20OF%20CONDUCT%20FOR%20NATIONAL%20MEDIA.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/05
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
c . No
Comments: In 2018, during the EU EOM of Pakistan, no debate between party leaders took place.
Source: EU Election Observation Mission Report, 2018. https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/final_report_pakistan_2018_english_0.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/05
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
b . 2-3 days
Comments: Two days before the elections.
Source: EU Election Observation Mission Report, 2018: https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/final_report_pakistan_2018_english_0.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/07
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There is no maximum amount.
Source: EU Election Observation Mission Report, 2018. https://www.eeas.europa.eu/sites/default/files/final_report_pakistan_2018_english_0.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/07
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There are no Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level.
Source: Direct Democracy Database:https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=169&database_theme=309
Verified: 2024/02/07
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: If at any time the Prime Minister considers it necessary to hold a referendum on any matter of national importance, he may refer the matter to a joint sitting of Parliament and if it is approved in a joint sitting, the Prime Minister may cause such matter to be referred to a referendum in the form of a question that is capable of being answered. This is the only statement made about referendums.
Source: Constitution, Art. 48 (6)
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/07
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: If, at any time, the President, in his discretion, or on the advice of the Prime Minister, considers that it is desirable that any matter of national importance should be referred to a referendum, the President may cause the matter to be referred to a referendum in the form of a question that is capable of being answered either by "Yes" or "No".
Source: Constitution, Art. 48 (6)
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/07
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: The constitution states nothing on this.
Source: Constitution, Art. 48 (6)
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/07
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: The constitution states nothing on this matter.
Source: Constitution, Art. 48 (6)
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/07
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There are no Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level.
Source: International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=169&database_theme=309
Verified: 2024/02/07
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments b . Adoption of international treaties c . Transfer of authority to international bodies d . National sovereignty, national self-determination e . Conflict between constitutional organs f . Devolution g . Civil service h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments i . Other public policy issues j . Other (specify)
Comments: j) Any matter of national importance.
C:26B "(6) If, at any time, the President, in his discretion, or on the advice of the Prime Minister, considers that it is desirable that any matter of national importance should be referred to a referendum, the President may cause the matter to be referred to a referendum in the form of a question that is capable of being answered either by "Yes" or "No". (7) An act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) may lay down the procedure for the holding of a referendum and the compiling and consolidation of the result of a referendum."
Source: The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan, art. 26B
Verified: 2006/12/31
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments: k) Any matter of national importance can be put to referendum. No issues are excluded by the constitution.
C:26B "(6) If, at any time, the President, in his discretion, or on the advice of the Prime Minister, considers that it is desirable that any matter of national importance should be referred to a referendum, the President may cause the matter to be referred to a referendum in the form of a question that is capable of being answered either by "Yes" or "No". (7) An act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) may lay down the procedure for the holding of a referendum and the compiling and consolidation of the result of a referendum."
Source: The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan, art. 26B
Verified: 2006/12/31
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
c . President
Comments: c) C:26B "(6) If, at any time, the President, in his discretion, or on the advice of the Prime Minister, considers that it is desirable that any matter of national importance should be referred to a referendum, the President may cause the matter to be referred to a referendum in the form of a question that is capable of being answered either by "Yes" or "No". (7) An act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) may lay down the procedure for the holding of a referendum and the compiling and consolidation of the result of a referendum."
Source: The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan, art. 26B
Verified: 2006/12/31
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
d . No information available
Comments: This isn't clear because nothing is stated in the Constitution about it.
Source: Constitution, Art. 48 (6)
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/07
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments: If at any time the Prime Minister considers it necessary to hold a referendum on any matter of national importance, he may refer the matter to a joint sitting of the Parliament.
Source: Constitution, Art. 48 (6)
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
Verified: 2024/02/07
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Ther are no Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at the sub-national levels.
Source: International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=169&database_theme=309
Verified: 2024/02/07
Voting Operations
VO001
Question: Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of election day supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?
Answer:
a . 91-100%
Comments: 100%
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/17
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: No, but manuals are prepared for the guidance of election officials.
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/18
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections f . By mail i . By tendered ballot
Comments: Within one week after appointment of Returning Officers, the Commission shall provide, in the prescribed format, a list
of proposed polling stations for each constituency to the Returning Officer of that constituency indicating the electoral areas assigned to each polling station and publish the list on its website.
The following persons may cast their votes by
postal ballot in such manner as may be prescribed—
(a) a person referred to in sub-sections (2) or (3) of section 27;
(b) a person appointed by the Returning Officer, including police
personnel, for the performance of any duty in connection with an
election at polling station other than the one at which he is entitled
to cast his vote;
(c) a person with any physical disability who is unable to travel and
holds a National Identity Card with a logo for physical disability
issued by the National Database and Registration Authority; and
(d) a person detained in a prison or held in custody.
If a person representing himself to
be a voter applies for a ballot paper when another person has already represented
to be that voter and has voted under the name of the person so applying—
(a) if the applicant meets the requirements of identity verification laid
down in section 84, he shall be entitled, subject to the provisions of
49
the section to receive a ballot paper (hereinafter referred to as
―Tendered Ballot Paper") in the same manner as any other voter;
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 59, 85 and 90: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
a . Outside the country voting is not permitted
Comments: The Commission may conduct pilot projects for voting by Overseas Pakistanis in Bye-elections to
ascertain the technical efficacy, secrecy, security and financial feasibility of such voting and shall share the results with the Government, which shall, within fifteen days from the commencement of a session of a House after the receipt of
the report, lay the same before both Houses of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament).
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 94: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 94: https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
b . Yes
Comments:
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/25
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
b . By mail
Comments: Voting by mail is restricted to prisoners, government employees on duty away from their home districts and polling staff.
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/18
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
e . People in prison f . Other
Comments: f) Government employees on duty away from their home districts and polling staff.
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com
Verified: 2002/06/25
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: A polling station has one Presiding Officer, but may have up to 4 boths supervised by Assisting Presiding Officers. There may also be several polling stations with multiple polling booths in one building. The maximum voter capacity for a polling station is 1500 regostered voters, the capacity for one both is approximately 375 voters(+/- 10% in both cases.)
Source: Muhammad, Hasan, Director General, Election Commission of Pakistan, iftishah77(a)hotmail.com, interview in Stockholm, 29/6-01.
Verified: 2001/07/18
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: He shall be required to receive a personal mark, made with indelible ink, on any finger or thumb of either hand as indicated by the Commission;
Source: Election Act including 2023 amendments, art. 84 (3-c): https://ecp.gov.pk/storage/files/2/Elections%20Act%202017%20updated/Updated%20Elections%20Act%202017-231011-105435.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/25
