Pakistan Parliament: The Senate & National Assembly
Pakistan Parliament is the cornerstone of the nation’s democratic framework, playing a vital role in lawmaking and governance. Empowered by the 1973 Constitution, the Parliament comprises the National Assembly and the Senate, each with distinct responsibilities that ensure balanced and inclusive representation. The Parliament’s primary function is to enact laws that drive progress and safeguard citizens’ rights. Through rigorous debate, thoughtful policy-making, and collaborative efforts, Pakistan’s Parliament empowers the government to serve the people effectively.
| Feature | Senate (Upper House) | National Assembly (Lower House) | Notes |
| Overall Purpose | Represents the provinces and ensures regional balance in lawmaking; reviews and refines legislation from the National Assembly. | Represents the people directly and reflects the national will; primarily responsible for financial matters and holding the government accountable. | The bicameral system seeks to balance representation, regional interests, and democratic principles. |
| Composition | 104 members: – 23 from each province – 4 from Federal Capital – 8 from formerly FATA | 342 members: – 272 general seats – 60 reserved for women – 10 reserved for non-Muslims | The Senate guarantees equal provincial representation, while the National Assembly reflects population distribution. |
| Election Method | Senators are elected indirectly by members of their Provincial Assemblies using proportional representation. | – General Seats: Direct election from single-member constituencies (first-past-the-post system). – Reserved Seats: Proportional representation based on the party’s national vote share. | Indirect Senate elections promote continuity and expertise, while direct elections for the National Assembly increase accountability to the people. |
| Term of Office | 6 years (with half the Senate retiring every 3 years for staggered terms). | 5 years (unless the Assembly is dissolved sooner). | Staggered Senate elections provide continuity, while the National Assembly’s term reflects a standard electoral cycle. |
| Key Powers & Responsibilities | * Legislative Equality (except money bills): Approves laws on most matters, alongside the National Assembly. * Approves Constitutional Amendments. * Participates in Presidential Impeachment. * Scrutinizes government actions and policies. | * Financial Supremacy: Sole power to introduce and pass the national budget and other money bills. * Executive Accountability: Holds the Prime Minister and Cabinet accountable through a vote of no confidence. | The Senate’s power balances the National Assembly’s financial authority. The National Assembly ensures the government is answerable to the people’s elected representatives. |
| Dissolution | The Senate cannot be dissolved. | Can be dissolved before its term expires: – On the advice of the Prime Minister to the President. – At the President’s discretion in specific circumstances (e.g., after a successful no-confidence vote, but no viable successor can be found). | The Senate’s permanent nature provides stability in the legislative process. The National Assembly’s potential dissolution adds an element of flexibility and can resolve political deadlocks. |
| Constitutional Basis | Articles 59, 63, 70, 73, 47 of the Constitution of Pakistan (1973). | Articles 51, 52, 77, 95, 58 of the Constitution of Pakistan (1973). | Refer to the full text of the Constitution for complete details and provisions. |