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Electoral reforms in Pakistan

Pakistan is one of the few countries including India where a large number of people suffer from
multiple, overlapping, and multidimensional inequalities. Freedom to vote is very important in elections
but votes are affected by caste, religion, community, gender, community, head of household, and class,
and mostly elites oppress the poor and illiterates in elections.

In Pakistan, despite the differences, there is recognition among stakeholders, local and international,
that electoral reforms are required. The European Union Election Observer Mission, in its General
Elections report, noted that

“Fundamental problems remain with the legal framework and the implementation of certain
provisions, leaving future processes vulnerable to malpractice and Pakistan not fully meeting its
obligations to provide citizens the right and opportunity to stand as candidates and to vote.”

In a nationwide survey of 4,535 people by UNDP, 49 percent were not satisfied with the existing
electoral system while 55 percent said electoral reforms are necessary.

Electoral reforms in Pakistan

Pakistan had been discussing and implementing various electoral reforms to improve its electoral
system and address issues related to transparency, fairness, and the overall integrity of the electoral
process. Please note that the situation may have evolved since then, so it's important to check for the
latest developments.

1. Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs): There were discussions about introducing electronic voting
machines to make the voting process more efficient and reduce the potential for electoral fraud.
EVMs were intended to enhance the accuracy and transparency of elections.

2. Biometric Verification: The use of biometric technology, such as fingerprint verification, was
being considered to ensure the authenticity of voters and prevent multiple voting.

3. Overseas Voting: Reforms were being explored to allow Pakistani citizens living abroad to
participate in the electoral process more easily. This involved discussions about online voting
and other measures to facilitate overseas voting.

4. Transparency and Accountability: Efforts were being made to increase transparency in

campaign financing and political party funding. Reforms aimed to make political parties more
accountable for their financial transactions and expenditures.

5. Delimitation of Constituencies: The delimitation of constituencies was reviewed to ensure

equal representation and address population disparities among constituencies.

6. Proportional Representation: Some discussions revolved around moving towards a proportional

representation system to make the distribution of seats in the parliament more reflective of the
overall vote share received by political parties.
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7. Electoral Commission Reforms: The independence and effectiveness of the Election

Commission of Pakistan (ECP) were under review to enhance its ability to oversee and conduct
free and fair elections.

8. Electoral Code of Conduct: Strengthening and enforcing the electoral code of conduct to
prevent electoral malpractices and ensure fair campaigning.

9. Voter Education: Initiatives to educate voters about their rights and the electoral process to
increase voter turnout and civic participation.

10. Gender Representation: Promoting greater gender diversity in elected bodies, including through
reserved seats for women in local government and provincial assemblies.

Hurdles in the way of electoral reforms in Pakistan

Electoral reforms in Pakistan have faced numerous hurdles and challenges over the years. These
obstacles have impeded the progress of reforms aimed at improving the transparency, fairness, and
overall integrity of the electoral process

1. Political Resistance: One of the primary obstacles to electoral reforms in Pakistan is political
resistance. Incumbent political parties often resist changes that could potentially diminish their
power or change the status quo. They may be hesitant to adopt reforms that could lead to
greater transparency and accountability.
2. Lack of Consensus: Achieving consensus among various political parties and stakeholders on
the nature and scope of electoral reforms has been challenging. Parties may have different
priorities and may not agree on specific reform measures.
3. Legal and Constitutional Challenges: Some electoral reforms may require amendments to
the constitution or existing laws, which can be a complex and time-consuming process.
Amendments often require a two-thirds majority in parliament, which can be difficult to
achieve.
4. Inadequate Implementation: Even when electoral reforms are enacted, their effective
implementation can be a challenge. Ensuring that reforms are carried out effectively and
transparently, especially at the local level, can be difficult.
5. Resource Constraints: The financial and logistical requirements for implementing electoral
reforms can be substantial. Pakistan may face resource constraints in terms of funding and
infrastructure needed for reforms like introducing electronic voting machines (EVMs) or
biometric verification.
6. Resistance to Technology: Introducing technology-based solutions, such as EVMs, can face
resistance from various quarters, including concerns about the security and reliability of
electronic voting systems.
7. Voter Education: Implementing electoral reforms often requires educating voters about the
changes to the electoral process. Ensuring that voters are informed and comfortable with new
systems or procedures can be a significant challenge.
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8. Security Concerns: Pakistan has faced security challenges that can impact the conduct of
elections. Ensuring the safety of voters, candidates, and election officials can be a major hurdle
in conducting fair and free elections.
9. Electoral Fraud and Manipulation: Addressing electoral fraud and manipulation is a
persistent challenge. Some political actors may resort to unfair practices to influence the
outcome of elections, which undermines the integrity of the electoral process.
10. External Factors: Pakistan's geopolitical environment and external pressures can also influence
the electoral reform process. International actors and organizations may have a stake in the
conduct of elections in Pakistan.
11. Public Awareness and Engagement: Mobilizing public support and awareness for electoral
reforms can be challenging. Public engagement and activism are essential for pushing reforms
forward.
12. Historical Precedence: Historical practices and norms in Pakistan's electoral system can be
deeply entrenched and resistant to change. Overcoming inertia in the system is a significant
challenge.

Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) positive and negative aspects

Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) have both positive and negative aspects, and their impact can vary
depending on how they are implemented and used. Here are some of the positive and negative aspects
of EVMs, along with examples:

Positive Aspects of EVMs:

1. Accuracy and Reduced Errors:

 EVMs can significantly reduce errors associated with manual paper-based voting and
counting processes.

 In the 2000 U.S. presidential election, the paper ballot system used in Florida led to
issues like "butterfly ballots" and "hanging chads," which resulted in inaccurate vote
counting. EVMs could have potentially prevented such errors.

2. Faster Results:

 EVMs can provide faster election results compared to manual counting, reducing the
time between voting and announcing results.

 In India, where EVMs are widely used, election results are typically available within
hours of polling stations closing.

3. Reduced Electoral Fraud:

 EVMs can help reduce various forms of electoral fraud, such as ballot stuffing or
multiple voting.

 Prior to the introduction of EVMs in some countries, there were cases of electoral fraud
involving the manipulation of paper ballots.
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4. Accessibility:

 EVMs can be designed to accommodate voters with disabilities, making the electoral
process more inclusive.

 Some EVMs are equipped with features like Braille keypads and audio instructions to
assist visually impaired voters.

5. Environmentally Friendly:

 EVMs reduce the need for paper ballots, which can be environmentally beneficial by
reducing paper consumption and waste.

 The use of EVMs in elections contributes to reducing deforestation associated with

paper production for ballots.

Negative Aspects of EVMs:

1. Security Concerns:

 EVMs can be vulnerable to hacking and other cybersecurity threats if not properly
secured.

 In the United States, concerns have been raised about the security of some electronic
voting systems, leading to calls for improved cybersecurity measures.

2. Lack of Transparency:

 EVMs may lack transparency if the inner workings, including the software and source
code, are proprietary and not fully disclosed.

 In some countries, the lack of transparency in EVM design has led to skepticism and
mistrust among voters and political parties.

3. Technical Failures:

 Like any electronic device, EVMs can experience technical failures, which may disrupt
the voting process.

 In the 2019 European Parliament elections, some EU countries experienced technical

issues with EVMs, leading to delays and concerns about the accuracy of results.

4. Cost and Infrastructure:

 Implementing EVMs can be costly, and it may require significant infrastructure

upgrades, which some countries may struggle to afford.

 Developing countries with limited resources may find it challenging to invest in EVMs
and the necessary supporting infrastructure.

5. Voter Intimidation:
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 In some cases, voters may feel intimidated by the electronic voting process, especially if
they are not familiar with technology.

 Elderly or less tech-savvy voters may be uncomfortable with EVMs, potentially

discouraging their participation.

6. Dependence on Technology:

 EVMs rely on technology, making them susceptible to power outages, technical glitches,
or cyberattacks.

 Power outages during elections can disrupt the use of EVMs in areas with unreliable
electricity infrastructure.

In conclusion, EVMs offer several advantages, such as increased accuracy, faster results, and reduced
fraud, but they also come with challenges related to security, transparency, technical reliability, and
cost. The effectiveness of EVMs depends on how well they are designed, implemented, and secured to
ensure the integrity of the electoral process

Should overseas Pakistani be given the right to vote?

The question of whether overseas Pakistanis should be given the right to vote in Pakistani elections is a
matter of policy and debate. Different countries have varying approaches to this issue, and the decision
to grant or restrict voting rights to overseas citizens depends on a range of factors, including legal,
practical, and philosophical considerations. Here are some arguments on both sides of the debate:

Arguments in Favor of Giving Overseas Pakistanis the Right to Vote:

1. Inclusivity: Allowing overseas Pakistanis to vote would be seen as an inclusive measure,

ensuring that citizens who are temporarily residing abroad can still participate in the democratic
process.

2. Contributions to the Economy: Many overseas Pakistanis contribute significantly to the

country's economy through remittances. Granting them voting rights would acknowledge their
economic contributions and give them a say in the country's governance.

3. Preserving the Connection: Allowing overseas Pakistanis to vote can help maintain their
connection to their home country and encourage engagement with its political affairs.

4. Increased Voter Turnout: Extending voting rights to overseas citizens could potentially increase
voter turnout in elections, as it provides an opportunity for a larger number of citizens to
participate.

5. Global Trend: Several countries, including India, allow their overseas citizens to vote in national
elections, reflecting a global trend toward extending voting rights to citizens abroad.

Arguments against Giving Overseas Pakistanis the Right to Vote:

1. Residency Requirement: Some argue that voting should be restricted to residents of Pakistan,
as they are the ones directly affected by the outcomes of elections and policies.
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2. Complexity: Implementing a system for overseas voting can be administratively complex and
costly, and ensuring the security and integrity of the process can be challenging.

3. Dilution of Local Voice: Concerns may arise that giving overseas Pakistanis the right to vote
could dilute the influence of local voters who are directly impacted by the consequences of
elections.

4. Risk of Manipulation: There is a risk that allowing overseas voting could open up avenues for
fraud or manipulation if not adequately safeguarded.

5. Representation: Critics argue that true representation should be based on physical presence
and direct involvement in the communities and issues of the country.

Ultimately, the decision to grant or deny voting rights to overseas citizens is a matter for the
government and legislature of Pakistan to determine through legal and policy processes. It involves
balancing the principles of inclusivity and representation with practical considerations regarding the
implementation and security of overseas voting systems. Public opinion and the perspectives of political
parties and civil society organizations also play a significant role in shaping the outcome of this debate.