By: Riaz Anjum
In Pakistan, the Constitution guarantees the protection of minorities and their meaningful participation in political life. Yet, the current system for reserved seats in the National and Provincial Assemblies limits this participation, weakening accountability and representation. I believe it is time to consider a dual vote system that allows minorities not only to vote in the general joint electorate but also to directly elect representatives on reserved seats.
Article 36 mandates that the state safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of minorities, including their due representation in federal and provincial services. However, under the existing framework, minority representatives on reserved seats are not chosen directly by their communities. Instead, political parties nominate candidates based on their performance in general constituencies—a process that distances representatives from the people they are meant to serve. A second vote for minority seats would correct this imbalance while remaining fully consistent with the Constitution.
Articles 17 and 25 reinforce the need for substantive political participation and equality. While the Constitution allows reserved seats as affirmative measures, true equality cannot be achieved when majority representatives are directly accountable to voters while minorities rely on party nominations. Giving minorities a direct vote would strengthen democratic fairness, enhance accountability, and ensure that reserved seats genuinely reflect the will of minority communities.
Articles 51 and 106 provide the legal structure for reserved seats but do not specify that selection must occur through party lists.
Similarly, Article 218(3) tasks the Election Commission with ensuring elections are fair and transparent. Direct elections for minority seats would align perfectly with this mandate, giving citizens more control over who represents them. Articles 227 and 2A further affirm that minorities are integral citizens with rights to religious freedom, equality, and political participation—rights that cannot be fully realized without meaningful electoral representation.
Critics argue that a dual vote system could conflict with the principle of “one person, one vote.” But this is a misconception. Minorities would continue to participate in the joint electorate alongside the majority. The additional vote would apply only to reserved seats already recognized by the Constitution. It does not create a separate electorate; it simply strengthens representation within the existing framework.
Direct elections for minority seats would also encourage grassroots leadership, reduce elite capture through party nominations, and enhance the legitimacy of representatives in the eyes of their communities. It would make our democracy more inclusive and responsive, aligning constitutional ideals with practical realities.
The articles of the Constitution collectively emphasize protection, equality, participation, fairness, and religious freedom. A dual vote system is not a radical departure from these principles—it is a natural extension. It is time for Pakistan to move beyond token representation and allow minorities to exercise their political voice fully.
As a society, we must open this discussion to legal experts, policymakers, and minority communities. Meaningful debate, followed by thoughtful reform, can ensure that Pakistan’s democracy is inclusive, accountable, and truly representative of all its citizens.
Riaz Anjum is President of the Christian Lawyers Association in Pakistan and an advocate for minority rights and constitutional reforms.