THE PARLIAMENTARY DEMOCRACY IN PAKISTAN: 2002-2018

BAHAUDDIN ZAKRIYA UNIVERSITY MULTAN

DEPARTMENT OF PAKISTAN STUDIES

By: MR MUHAMMAD SALEEM QAZI

Supervised By: PROF. DR. M. JAVED AKHTAR

Academic Level: PhD

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Abstract

Democracy is widely acknowledged as the preeminent political system in contemporary
society due to its perceived superiority, practicality, and inherent justice. Primarily, the
establishment of a parliament is an essential prerequisite for the functioning of a
democratic system. This institution holds significant authority as it serves as a
representative body for the populace. The Parliament serves as the highest legislative
authority within the nation. Countries that have successfully implemented a robust
democratic system and demonstrate a high regard for their parliamentary institutions are
thriving globally. The fundamental components of a democratic system encompass a
legislative body, a judiciary that operates autonomously, and an effective executive
branch. It is imperative that these three institutions operate within their designated
spheres of authority and adhere to the principles outlined in the constitution. In addition
to the system, it is imperative to have free and fair elections, political liberty, and freedom
of the press as essential components. Undoubtedly, elections that are free from
manipulation serve as the fundamental mechanism for guaranteeing the adequate
representation of the populace. The democratic system ensures the protection of the wellbeing
of individuals during the legislative process. Pakistan adopted a democratic system
of governance within its borders. The Pakistani populace and its political representatives
have significantly contributed to the process of democratization. The constitutional
history of Pakistan has been marked by the interference of both military and civilian
dictators, which has hindered the development of the country’s democratic and
parliamentary culture. Indeed, it is evident that the prevailing consensus has consistently
exhibited a favorable disposition towards military governance, while concurrently
acknowledging the recurrent interference of the military in impeding the advancement of
civilian-led administrations. This research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of
the performance of the Pakistan parliament between 2002 and 2018, with the objective of
enhancing democratic processes. This thesis examines the role of democracy and assesses
the various factors that have undermined the essence of democracy in Pakistan.
Additionally, it provides several recommendations to enhance parliamentary democracy
in the country.

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On the direction of the Chairman Senate/President PIPS Board of Governors, the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services (PIPS), has implemented a comprehensive set of measures aimed at ensuring fiscal discipline, operational efficiency, and responsible utilization of public resources, on the same lines as notified and adopted by the Senate and National Assembly Secretariats.

Under the new measures, the Institute has adopted a four-day working week (Monday to Thursday), while introducing a hybrid working model whereby 50% of staff will perform duties from the office and 50% will work remotely on a rotational basis. Employees working from home will remain fully accessible through digital communication platforms and may be required to report to the office on short notice, ensuring uninterrupted institutional functioning.

Significant steps have also been taken to promote energy conservation. These include a target of achieving up to 70% reduction in energy consumption through minimizing unnecessary use of electricity and ensuring that official meetings, trainings, and events are scheduled during daylight hours. Foreign tours are banned and international meetings are being held virtually.

In the transport section, PIPS has introduced strict measures to curtail expenditure and 70% official vehicles have been grounded as part of this initiative.

As part of broader austerity efforts, 20% reduction has been imposed on the non-ERE budget for the fourth quarter of the current financial year. The officers drawing a monthly salary of PKR 300,000 or more, shall surrendered two days salary or 5% to 30% salary on gross as per Federal Government decision.

The Institute has also discontinued all non-essential procurements with immediate effect. Official functions such as dinners and receptions will not be hosted, except in the case of visiting foreign delegations, and even then, strictly in accordance with austerity protocols.

These measures have been implemented with immediate effect and will remain in force until further orders.

Under the guidance of President PIPS Board of Governors, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, PIPS remains fully committed to maintaining its core functions of parliamentary support, capacity building, and research while contributing proactively to national austerity and sustainability goals.