Only 35% of Political Parties in Pakistan Maintain Functional Websites
Digital Presence of Political Parties in Pakistan Remains Weak
According to a recent report by the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN), only 35% of
political parties in Pakistan currently maintain operational websites. This reveals a concerning gap
in digital accessibility and transparency, especially in an increasingly digital political landscape.
Assessment Reveals Digital Gaps
The FAFEN report titled “Assessing Web Presence of Political Parties in Pakistan” evaluated 166 registered political
entities and found that just 58 had functional or partially functional websites. This points to a widespread issue in
maintaining digital infrastructure.
Compliance with Election Laws Remains Low
Of the 20 parties currently represented in the Federal Parliament and/or Provincial Assemblies, only 14 comply with
the website mandate laid out in Section 208(4) of the Elections Act, 2017. This legal provision requires parties to
publicly list their central office bearers and executive committee members online.
Transparency and Information Gaps
While 69% of those with websites publish lists of central office bearers, only 10% provide names of executive committee
members. Social media profiles are often maintained, but they do not serve as a substitute for structured, accessible
information that websites are meant to provide.
Performance of Leading Parties
Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) leads in web content by publishing 18 out of 30 assessed information categories. PTI follows with 15
(though its site is currently blocked in Pakistan). Other notable performers include PPPP (12), PML-N (11), and ANP (9).
Web Transparency Among Non-Parliamentary Parties
Among non-parliamentary groups, Pakistan Tehreek Shadbad (PTS) scored highest with 13 categories. In general, most websites
focus on contact details and party objectives, while financial disclosures remain rare.
Legal Requirements Still Overlooked
Section 201(1)(a) of the Elections Act, 2017 mandates inclusion of party aims in constitutions, yet many parties fall short
in providing comprehensive online details. Although 83% of websites list at least one party office, financial data remains
the least reported aspect.
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