ISLAMABAD: In a move that could shape the framework for Pakistan’s next general elections, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has constituted a high-level committee to review electoral laws and recommend reforms aimed at making the country’s election process more transparent, effective and technologically modern.
According to media reports, the newly formed Electoral Reforms Committee has been tasked with examining Pakistan’s existing electoral framework and proposing amendments to both election-related legislation and constitutional provisions where necessary.
The committee, comprising senior ECP officials and electoral experts, will prepare recommendations designed to strengthen the electoral system while addressing procedural and legal shortcomings identified in previous elections.
As part of its mandate, the committee will also undertake a comprehensive review of issues that emerged during the 2024 general elections, which were marred by widespread controversy, allegations of irregularities, prolonged delays in the announcement of results, and legal challenges from several political parties. Those disputes fuelled calls from both domestic stakeholders and international observers for greater transparency and institutional reforms to enhance public confidence in Pakistan’s electoral process.
According to sources, the committee will examine proposed amendments to the Election Act, 2017 and the Election Rules, 2017 with the objective of updating the country’s electoral framework in line with contemporary administrative and technological requirements.
The committee is also expected to hold consultations with political parties and relevant state institutions before finalising its recommendations. Following the consultation process, its proposals will be submitted to the Election Commission for consideration.
The initiative comes as Pakistan continues to face recurring debates over electoral transparency and credibility, with successive elections often followed by allegations of rigging, administrative lapses and disputes over the conduct of polling and vote tabulation. The proposed reforms are expected to focus on strengthening legal safeguards, improving election administration and enhancing public confidence ahead of the country’s next general elections.
