According to the 1973 constitutional framework, the country introduced a Parliamentary government system. This Parliamentary system consists of two classes: the ‘upper class’ ‘Senate‘ and the ‘lower class’ ‘National Assembly’.
National Assembly:
The National Assembly is an assembly comprised of the delegates of a nation and usually represents a legislative body. In addition, it is the lower house of the bilateral Parliament of Pakistan. Moreover, it is also known as Aiwan-e-Zairin ( ایوانِ زیریں ). Furthermore, its house is located in the capital of Pakistan: Islamabad.
Role:
The institution of the National Assembly serves as a crucial oversight mechanism for the Executive branch, guaranteeing that the government operates within the confines delineated in the 1973 Constitution and respects the fundamental rights of the populace. In conjunction with the Senate, it plays a pivotal role in the legislative process of the nation. It’s members elect the Prime Minister among their ranks for a five-year term.
Seats of National Assembly:
The National Assembly has 336 members, each of whom serves a five year duration. Direct elections fill 266 out of the total 336 seats, reflecting a significant portion of the assembly or parliamentary seats. This process allows the public to have a direct say by choosing their representatives through voting, thereby ensuring a democratic way of filling the majority of the available positions. Muslims occupy 252 seats, non-Muslims have 10 seats, and women have reserved the remaining 60 seats. Voters directly elect Members of the National Assembly using the ‘first-past-the-post’ system.
The minimum age for contesting the National Assembly’s elections is 25 years. 173 members; 141 general and 32 women, are from Punjab. 61 general and 14 women, total 75, belongs to Sindh. 55 (45 general and 10 women) from KPK and 20 (16 general and 4 women)from Baluchistan, 3 from Federal and 10 non-Muslims belong from any province of Pakistan.
Election 2024:
In the 2024 elections, Independent candidates (PTI) secured 93 seats, PML-N obtained 98 seats, PPP garnered 68 seats, MQM acquired 22 seats, JUI(F) clinched 5 seats, IPP and PML-Q each secured 4 seats, BNP won 2 seats, independents claimed 8 seats, and others secured 6 seats. Additionally, there are 26 vacant seats.
Dissolution:
The President of Pakistan has the authority to dissolve the National Assembly upon the recommendation of the Prime Minister of Pakistan. In the event of its dissolution, the organization will conduct fresh elections.
