Senate panel reviews Internet voting, electoral reforms

ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Parliamentary Affairs held a substantive session at the Parliament House on Thursday, focusing on key electoral reforms including the feasibility of internet voting and expanding voting rights for overseas Pakistanis.

Members underscored the importance of maintaining accessibility, security, and electoral integrity in any new voting mechanisms.

Chaired by Senator Dr Mohammad Humayun Mohmand, the meeting brought together lawmakers to deliberate on advancing transparency and inclusivity in Pakistan’s electoral system.

The committee had initially scheduled a briefing from the Pattan Development Organisation, a civil society group known for its work on electoral issues. However, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs informed the committee at the last minute that Pattan’s registration had been cancelled, thereby preventing an official invitation.

Despite the absence of the scheduled presentation, the committee proceeded with a productive internal discussion. Lawmakers debated the strengths and limitations of the current first-past-the-post (FPTP) electoral system, and explored a potential shift to proportional representation as a more equitable alternative.

A major point of discussion was the introduction of internet voting for overseas Pakistanis. Members considered both the opportunities and risks, particularly focusing on ensuring data security, accessibility for remote voters, and the credibility of the voting process.

The session was attended by Senators Mohsin Aziz, Khalil Tahir, Khalida Ateeb, Pervaiz Rasheed, and Kamran Murtaza. Senior officials from the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs were also present to provide input and facilitate the committee’s deliberations.

The committee is expected to continue its review of electoral reforms in upcoming sessions, potentially inviting expert input from civil society organisations and technology stakeholders once regulatory clarifications are addressed.