The 2024 general elections in Pakistan have painted a vivid picture of the country’s ever-evolving political landscape, marking a significant moment in its democratic journey. With the stakes higher than ever, the elections have unfolded a series of intriguing and mind boggling developments that could shape the nation’s future. The things we saw are unprecedented and the best part is you don’t have to say it out loud as we even kids who can’t vote know, like really KNOW!
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY RESULT: (PROVISIONAL)
The 2024 general elections in Pakistan, held on February 8, were a significant event that attracted global attention due to their implications for the country’s political landscape. These elections aimed to elect members to the 16th National Assembly, with the major political contenders being the Pakistan Muslim League (N) (PML-N), led by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), founded by Imran Khan. However, due to a Supreme Court ruling, PTI candidates had to contest as independents, and Khan was barred from politics for five years.
The elections were marred by allegations of pre-poll rigging, with many international observers and media outlets voicing concerns over the fairness of the process. There were claims of military interference in favor of the PML-N, leading to widespread criticism and calling this the most rigged election in Pakistan’s history.
Despite these challenges, a coalition government was announced on February 13, 2024, with the PPP and the PML-N agreeing to form a government led by Shehbaz Sharif. This coalition also includes support from other parties, ensuring a majority in the National Assembly.
The electoral system in Pakistan allows each voter to cast two votes: one for the National Assembly and another for the provincial assembly, with the National Assembly consisting of 336 seats. A party or coalition needs 134 seats to form the government. The elections took place against a backdrop of economic crisis and increased attacks from armed factions, adding to the country’s instability.
This election also saw a crackdown on PTI and its leader, Imran Khan, who is currently in jail. The PTI has previously ruled Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for a decade and Punjab for most of the past five years, making its exclusion particularly impactful.
POLITICAL DYNAMICS AND ELECTORAL OUTCOMES
The electoral process in Pakistan is characterized by its dual voting system, where each voter casts ballots for both the National Assembly and the provincial assemblies. The National Assembly consists of 336 seats, necessitating a coalition or a party to secure 134 seats to form the government.
This year’s elections have been especially notable for several reasons. The Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) party faced setbacks, with key leaders stepping down in protest against the election results, labeling them as ‘rigged’ and ‘manipulated’. The PTI, led by Imran Khan despite his incarceration, challenged these results in Karachi, indicating a significant dispute over the legitimacy of the outcomes.
KEY POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS
- Coalition Formations and Political Alliances: The post-election scenario has seen a flurry of coalition talks and alliances. The PTI hinted at collaborations with other major parties except for PML-N, PPP, and MQM-P, reflecting a strategic approach to navigating the complex political terrain.
- Electoral Controversies and Legal Battles: Allegations of election rigging and legal challenges to the results have underscored the contentious nature of these elections. The PPP and PTI, among others, have voiced their concerns and initiated legal proceedings to contest the declared outcomes.
PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLIES AND LEADERSHIP NOMINATIONS
The elections have also highlighted significant shifts in provincial politics, with the PPP and PTI making strategic moves in anticipation of forming government bodies. Nawaz Sharif’s nomination of Shehbaz Sharif for the prime ministerial slot and Maryam Nawaz for Punjab’s chief minister position indicates a strategic consolidation of leadership within the PML-N.
PUNJAB ASSEMBLY RESULTS PROVISIONAL
SINDH ASSEMBLY RESULTS PROVISIONAL
KPK ASSEMBLY RESULTS PROVISIONAL
BALOCHISTAN ASSEMBLY RESULTS PROVISIONAL
UNFOLDING DEVELOPMENTS IN PAKISTAN’S POLITICAL LANDSCAPE
NAWAZ SHARIF’S POLITICAL JOURNEY: A FORWARD PATH
Maryam Nawaz, the Vice President of PML-N, has recently dispelled rumors suggesting that Nawaz Sharif, the party’s supremo, is distancing himself from the political arena. Contrary to speculation, Nawaz Sharif is not only planning to remain active in politics but also aims to lead the government both in the Centre and Punjab over the next five years. Maryam’s statements, shared on X, underline Nawaz Sharif’s intentions to avoid coalition governments, as he clearly stated in his campaign speeches.
وزارت عظمیٰ کا عہدہ قبول نا کرنے کا مطلب اگر یہ اخذ کیا جا رہا ہے کہ نواز شریف سیاست سے کنارہ کش ہو رہے ہیں تو اس میں کوئی سچائی نہیں۔ اگلے ۵ سال وہ نا صرف بھرپور سیاست کریں گے بلکہ وفاق و پنجاب میں اپنی حکومتوں کی سرپرستی کریں گے انشاءاللّہ۔
نوازشریف کی تینوں حکومتوں میں عوام…— Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) February 14, 2024
VOICES FROM BALOCHISTAN: A PROTEST IN CONTINUATION
In Balochistan, the political atmosphere is charged with tension as the Awami National Party (ANP) continues its protest against the election results of PB-51 Chaman for the sixth consecutive day. Led by Asghar Khan Achakzai, ANP’s Balochistan president, thousands of party workers are rallying against what they claim to be electoral rigging, demanding a fair review of the results.
چمن، حلقہ پی بی 51 کے نتائج کی تبدیلی اور دھاندلی کے خلاف ڈپٹی کمشنر کے دفتر کے سامنے احتجاجی دھرنا چھٹے روز میں داخل۔ صوبائی صدر و امیدوار پی بی 51 اصغرخان اچکزئی گذشتہ چھ روز سے ہزاروں کارکنان کے ہمراہ دھرنے میں موجود ہیں۔#PB51ForAsgharKhan | #EnoughIsEnough pic.twitter.com/vz4JaIcGok
— ANP Balochistan (@ANPOBalochistan) February 14, 2024
A PRESS CONFERENCE OF SIGNIFICANCE
PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif has been invited by JUI-F president Fazlur Rehman to join him on the opposition benches.
He asserted during a press conference that the election results unequivocally demonstrated that bribes were accepted from both unsuccessful and victorious candidates. In exchange for cash, “some were even given entire assemblies.”
He continued, “I therefore invite Nawaz and the PML-N to accompany us and sit in the opposition.”
PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif has been invited by JUI-F president Fazl-ur-Rehman to join him on the opposition benches. “I therefore invite Nawaz and the PML-N to accompany us and sit in the opposition.”#MaulanaFazlurRehman #NawazSharif #PKElections2024 #ElectionsResults pic.twitter.com/JLF96OAz3T
— MM Financials Pakistan (@mmfinancialspak) February 14, 2024
EMBRACING NEW SOCIO-ECONOMIC REALITIES
Ahsan Iqbal of PML-N has voiced a significant challenge facing established political entities: the need to adapt to evolving socio-economic dynamics. Highlighting the political ascent of Imran Khan, which capitalized on the support of the educated middle class and youth, Iqbal emphasizes the urgency for older parties to integrate these new segments into their structures and strategies. He also pointed out the critical role of data science and technology in modern electoral politics, urging parties to enhance their capabilities in these areas.
IK phenomenon is middle & educated classes & youth rebellion against traditional politics in which older parties are very strongly entrenched in their traditional power bases with no meaningful space for them. The challenge for older parties is to align their politics with the…
— Ahsan Iqbal (@betterpakistan) February 14, 2024
ELECTION CONTROVERSIES: CLAIMS OF DISCREPANCIES
Sher Afzal Marwat, a senior vice president of PTI, has raised concerns over the election results from NA-148, alleging that PPP’s candidate Yousuf Raza Gilani, despite being declared the winner, actually lost by a significant margin according to Form-45. This controversy adds another layer to the ongoing debates over election integrity in Pakistan.
یوسف رضا گیلانی Form 45 کے مطابق 6500 ووٹوں سے ہارے ہوئے ہیں، شیر افضل خان مروت
pic.twitter.com/G2cZw46g2L— PTI (@PTIofficial) February 14, 2024
POLITICAL ALLIANCES IN FLUX
Ijazul Haq of Pakistan Muslim League-Zia has discussed an offer from PML-Q’s Chaudhry Shujaat regarding maintaining a collective stance in the forthcoming government. This dialogue reflects the ongoing negotiations and strategic alignments shaping the future of Pakistan’s political governance.
HUMAN RIGHTS AND ELECTION CONDUCT
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed deep concern over the arrest of independent candidate Daniyal Aziz, his wife, and son following the elections. The HRCP’s statement emphasizes the need for accountability and the protection of political candidates and their supporters from undue force and detention.
HRCP deplores the authorities’ high-handedness against independent candidate Daniyal Aziz and his wife, former MNA @MehnazAkberAziz, and their son, in Narowal soon after the elections. Mr Aziz had been arrested earlier by the police on unknown charges while visiting polling…
— Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (@HRCP87) February 14, 2024
ADDRESSING ELECTORAL COMPLAINTS
Barrister Taimur Malik, a PTI-backed independent candidate, has highlighted the delayed response to his complaints regarding electoral processes in NA-148. This situation underscores the challenges faced by candidates in ensuring transparency and fairness in the electoral consolidation process.
Just received a copy of the ECP’s “most urgent” letter to the RO for #NA148 pursuant to my complaint in the early hours of 9th Feb re denial of access during provisional consolidation of results. This is why it’s important to document irregularities – this establishes pattern of… pic.twitter.com/Km7ujNz6Gz
— Taimur Malik (@taimur_malik) February 14, 2024
PPP’S STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Khursheed Shah of PPP has indicated a strategic shift towards prioritizing the chairmanship of National Assembly standing committees over ministerial positions. This approach signifies a strategic positioning to leverage the influence and power vested in committee roles.
LEGAL WARNINGS AGAINST POLITICAL DEFECTIONS
Babar Awan of PTI has issued a stern warning against political defections, invoking Article 63 of the Constitution. Awan’s statement reflects the ongoing concerns over party loyalty and the legal consequences for those who violate party directives during critical votes.
IMPLICATIONS FOR PAKISTAN’S POLITICAL FUTURE
The latest elections news from Pakistan involves significant developments following the contested polls on February 8, 2024. The main political movements include the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) forming coalitions with religious parties, while the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) backs its rival, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN), to secure a majority needed for government formation. This political maneuvering comes amid protests and allegations of election tampering, with PTI and its affiliates winning the most seats but facing accusations of vote manipulation.
Imran Khan had given the go ahead to the party for the formation of the government with the Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen in the Centre and Punjab.
“And in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, for reserved seats, we will form a coalition with the Jamaat-i-Islami,” he said.#PKElections2024 pic.twitter.com/u6LfLmu1x9
— MM Financials Pakistan (@mmfinancialspak) February 13, 2024
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A NEW DIRECTION IN POLITICAL ALLIANCES
The political terrain in Pakistan is witnessing significant shifts, with the Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) revealing a surprising turn in their collaboration with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Initially, both parties had expressed intent to unite their efforts at the national level to serve the country’s interests. However, a recent declaration by the PTI, indicating their focus on forming a provincial government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa independently, has prompted reactions from JI, signaling a potential realignment of strategies within the political landscape.
جماعت اسلامی کے مرکزی نائب امیر لیاقت بلوچ نے مرکزی مشاورت اور میڈیا سے گفتگو کرتے ہوئے کہا کہ 8 فروری 2024ء کے انتخابات کے بعد پاکستان تحریک انصاف کے قائدین نے جماعت اسلامی سے رابطہ کیا کہ جماعت اسلامی اور تحریک انصاف نئی صورتحال میں مشترکہ حکمت عملی پر اتفاق کرے۔ اس کے فوری بعد… pic.twitter.com/ncs0cXbfGz
— Jamaat e Islami Pakistan (@JIPOfficial) February 14, 2024
THE CALL FOR IMRAN KHAN’S RELEASE
Amidst these developing political circumstances, a powerful voice has surfaced calling for Imran Khan, the founder of the PTI, to be released immediately. Prominent PTI member Babar Awan highlighted Khan’s critical involvement in the upcoming formation of the government, lauding his appointment of Ali Amin Gandapur as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s chief minister. The wide differences and significant stakes in Pakistan’s political debate are highlighted by Awan’s statement.
ELECTORAL INTEGRITY UNDER SCRUTINY
Due to security concerns, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) ordered re-election in six NA-43 stations, putting the voting process’s integrity under heavy scrutiny. In addition, the ECP halted the vote recount and opened an inquiry in response to claims of vote rigging in PB-21 Hub, underscoring the difficulties with election fairness and transparency.
WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP
In a historic announcement, PML-N’s Rana Tanveer Hussain declared Maryam Nawaz as the potential first female chief minister of Punjab, marking a significant moment for gender representation in Pakistani politics. This move not only underscores the shifting dynamics within PML-N but also sets a precedent for women’s leadership at the provincial level.
ADDRESSING ELECTORAL DISCREPANCIES
With the ECP withholding results for NA-253 and PB-9 Kohlu and ordering re-elections in several polling stations, the spotlight is on the mechanisms for addressing electoral complaints and ensuring the accuracy of election outcomes. This action reflects a broader demand for electoral integrity and the need for robust mechanisms to safeguard the democratic process.
VOICES FOR DEMOCRACY AND TRANSPARENCY
The political narrative is further enriched by voices like Shireen Mazari and PTI’s Raoof Hasan, advocating for democracy and challenging the legitimacy of the current electoral outcomes. Their statements reflect a deep-seated demand for transparency, accountability, and a fair representation of the people’s will.
LEGAL AND JUDICIAL REFLECTIONS
The Lahore High Court’s dismissal of petitions against electoral victories and the call for judicial reflection on election result cases underscore the complex interplay between law, politics, and the quest for justice in electoral matters.
A NATIONWIDE CALL FOR ACTION
From the streets of Balochistan to the corridors of power in Islamabad, political parties, leaders, and citizens are raising their voices against perceived injustices and rigging in the elections, signaling a nationwide call for reform, transparency, and a genuine democratic process.
Furthermore, the aftermath of the elections has seen parties engaging in government formation talks against a backdrop of demonstrations against the election results, indicating a tense and contested political landscape. The situation is made more complex by international concerns, with the United States urging Pakistan to investigate election irregularities, highlighting the global attention on Pakistan’s democratic processes.
The country’s political landscape may undergo significant change as a result of the general elections in Pakistan in 2024. Political environment is very competitive and complex, as evidenced by the formation of coalitions and the difficulties caused by electoral disputes.
The entire consequences for political stability, democratic procedures, and governance will not yet be known while the nation awaits the final results and the determination of disputed results. These developments show how vibrant Pakistani democracy is, but they also point to the difficulties in establishing a more transparent and inclusive voting process in the future.
In summary, Pakistan’s dynamic political landscape has been demonstrated by the general elections of 2024, which have highlighted the country’s democratic aspirations, difficulties, and resiliency. The political discourse generated by these elections will surely impact the nation’s future trajectory towards sustainable growth and governance.
In the context of Pakistan’s federal and provincial governments, the number of seats required to form a government and the allocation of reserved seats are determined by the country’s electoral laws and constitution.
FORMING A GOVERNMENT
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
For the National Assembly of Pakistan, a party or coalition needs a majority of the 336 seats to form a federal government. Out of these, 266 seats are filled through direct elections in single-member constituencies using a first-past-the-post system. To secure a simple majority and form the government, a party or coalition must have at least 168 seats out of the directly elected 266. However, considering the total strength of the assembly including reserved seats, the magic number for a majority is 168 out of 336 as there are 60 reserved seats for women and 10 for non-Muslim minorities.
NOTE: Out of 266 seats contested in General Elections Pakistan, one result is with held by the ECP and one is postponed so as of now we have results of 264 seats out of 266.
PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTS
Each of Pakistan’s four provincial assemblies—Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and Balochistan—requires a majority of the seats to form a provincial government. The exact number depends on the total seats in each provincial assembly, which also include general and reserved seats. The required majority is more than half of the total assembly seats, including both directly elected and reserved seats.
RESERVED SEATS
Reserved seats in both the National and Provincial Assemblies are allocated for women and non-Muslim minorities to ensure their representation. These seats are not contested directly in the general elections. Instead, they are distributed among the political parties based on their proportion of directly elected seats.
- National Assembly: There are 60 reserved seats for women and 10 for non-Muslim minorities.
- Provincial Assemblies: The number of reserved seats for women and minorities varies by province.
ALLOCATION OF RESERVED SEATS
The allocation of reserved seats is based on the proportion of seats won by each political party in the directly contested elections. For example, if a party wins 50% of the directly contested seats in the National Assembly, it would be allocated 50% of the reserved seats for women and minorities. This proportional representation system requires political parties to submit lists of candidates for these reserved seats as part of their election preparations.
Distribution of reserved seats based on election results and party candidate lists is supervised by the Pakistani Election Commission (ECP). Groups who could otherwise be underrepresented in seats that are actively contested are included in this approach in an effort to achieve a more inclusive representation in the legislative bodies.
In order to guarantee equitable representation and governance at the federal and provincial levels, Pakistan’s legislative and constitutional structure includes intricate procedures for forming governments and assigning reserved seats.
