The Constitutional Paradox of Women’s Political Rights and Electoral Disenfranchisement in Pakistan: A Case Study of Swabi NA-19

Abstract

This study examines the contradiction between Pakistan’s constitutional assurances of women’s political rights and the actual experiences of disenfranchisement. The 1973 Constitution officially recognizes women's equality under the law (Article 25), requires their involvement in national affairs (Article 34), and allocates reserved seats in both national and provincial assemblies (Articles 51 and 106). In reality, though, countless women continue to be barred from elections because of patriarchal traditions, fragile institutions, and political complicity. In the 2018 General Elections, the paradox is clearly visible in NA-19 Swabi, where women's turnout was significantly less than men's, despite nearly equal voter registration between genders. Employing a qualitative case study approach that incorporates interviews, focus group discussions, and analysis of documents, the research reveals that disenfranchisement arises from socio-cultural norms (such as purdah, jirga verdicts, and honor codes), institutional obstacles (including NADRA’s inadequacy in registering women and insufficient oversight by the ECP), alongside women’s personal views of politics as a male-centric space. The findings indicate that the paradox does not stem from a lack of constitutional rights but from their ineffective application. The paper wraps up with suggestions for more rigorous enforcement of electoral regulations, gender-responsive institutional changes, grassroots awareness initiatives, and sustained funding for education and empowerment.

Keywords: Pakistan, Constitution, Women’s Rights, Disenfranchisement, NA-19 Swabi, Patriarchy, Elections, Feminism