Saad Rafique calls for proportional representation in Pakistan

Senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Khawaja Saad Rafique has called for electoral reforms in Pakistan, arguing that the current election system fails to provide representation to all political parties according to their share of votes.

Speaking at a meeting, the former federal minister questioned the existing model of democracy. He pointed out that a candidate securing 100,000 votes could win a National Assembly seat, while another candidate receiving 99,000 votes might remain unrepresented.

Rafique proposed introducing a proportional representation system to ensure that political parties receive seats in Parliament according to the votes they secure. He said several political groups receive a significant number of votes but fail to win any seats, leaving their supporters without representation in the legislature.

He argued that a more inclusive electoral system could bring different political forces into Parliament and reduce political confrontations on the streets. According to him, the purpose of democratic institutions should be to accommodate diverse political views through parliamentary representation.

However, Rafique stressed that electoral reform would require a comprehensive legal framework. He cautioned that proportional representation could concentrate excessive power in party leadership if internal democratic mechanisms were not strengthened.

He called for intra-party elections and amendments to the relevant laws, including the Political Parties Order and regulations governing the Election Commission of Pakistan. He maintained that electoral reforms should go hand in hand with greater democracy within political parties.

Addressing young people and other sections of society, Rafique urged political parties to take the lead in reforming the system. He said academics, intellectuals, civil society members and educated youth should also contribute to the debate and press political leaders to pursue meaningful changes.

He emphasised that political parties must recognise the need for reform and work towards a system that provides broader representation and strengthens parliamentary democracy.

His remarks have attracted attention on social media, renewing discussion about Pakistan’s electoral system, political representation and the need for reforms within political parties.