Submitted By

Zulqarnain

Roll Number: BSPSY-2024-21

BS Psychology - 1st Semester

Submitted To

Ma’am Shazali

Subject

Ideology

University

AUST (Abbottabad University of Science and Technology)

Topic: Structure of ciovernment (executive,legislature and judiciary)

Date

October 26, 2024

Structure of ciovernment (executive,legislature and judiciary)

Overview
The government of Pakistan operates under a parliamentary system, defined by a clear
separation of powers among three main branches: the Executive, the Legislature, and the
Judiciary. Each branch plays a crucial role in ensuring a balanced governance structure
that upholds the principles of democracy, accountability, and rule of law. This assignment
explores the functions, composition, and significance of each branch within the context of
Pakistan's political landscape.
Historical Context

Evolution of the Government Structure

Pakistan’s government structure has undergone significant changes since its inception in
1947. Initially, the country adopted a constitutional framework influenced by British
parliamentary traditions. Over the years, various political upheavals, including military
coups and constitutional amendments, have shaped the current structure of governance.
The 1973 Constitution established a comprehensive framework that delineates the powers
and responsibilities of the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, promoting a system of
checks and balances.

The Role of Key Historical Events

Key historical events, such as the imposition of martial law and subsequent constitutional
reforms, have influenced the distribution of power among government branches. For
instance, the 18th Amendment in 2010 reinforced the role of the Parliament and provincial
autonomy, reflecting the ongoing evolution of Pakistan’s governance model.

The Executive Branch

Composition and Functions

The Executive branch is headed by the President, who serves as the ceremonial head of
state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government and holds significant executive
powers. The Prime Minister is elected by the National Assembly and is responsible for
forming the Cabinet, which consists of Ministers who oversee various government
departments.

The Executive’s primary functions include:

1. Policy Implementation: The Executive is responsible for implementing laws

passed by the Legislature and managing the day-to-day affairs of the state.
2. Administration: It oversees the administration of public services and ensures the
effective functioning of government agencies.
3. Foreign Affairs: The Executive handles foreign relations, negotiates treaties, and
represents Pakistan in international forums.
Challenges Facing the Executive

The Executive branch often faces challenges such as political instability, corruption, and
limited administrative capacity. These issues can hinder effective governance and the
implementation of policies.

The Legislature

Composition and Structure

The Legislature of Pakistan is bicameral, consisting of two houses: the National Assembly
and the Senate. The National Assembly is composed of Members of Parliament (MPs)
elected directly by the people, while the Senate represents the provinces, with Senators
elected by the provincial assemblies.

Functions of the Legislature

The Legislature performs several vital functions:

1. Law-Making: The primary role of the Legislature is to create, amend, and repeal
laws. Both houses must approve legislation for it to become law.
2. Representation: The Legislature represents the interests of the citizens, ensuring
that diverse voices are heard in the decision-making process.
3. Oversight: The Legislature holds the Executive accountable by scrutinizing its
actions, approving budgets, and investigating issues of public concern.

Legislative Challenges

Challenges faced by the Legislature include political polarization, lack of public trust, and
inefficiencies in the legislative process. These factors can impede effective law-making
and oversight.

The Judiciary

Structure and Role

The Judiciary in Pakistan is independent and plays a critical role in upholding the rule of law
and protecting citizens' rights. It consists of several levels, including:
 1. Supreme Court: The highest court in the land, it has the authority to interpret the
Constitution, adjudicate disputes, and ensure justice.
2. High Courts: Each province has its own High Court, which deals with appeals from
lower courts and has original jurisdiction over certain matters.
3. Lower Courts: These include civil, criminal, and specialized courts that handle
cases at the local level.

Functions of the Judiciary

The Judiciary performs essential functions, such as:

1. Interpretation of Laws: The Judiciary interprets laws and ensures they align with
the Constitution.
2. Protection of Rights: It protects fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals,
providing a mechanism for justice.
3. Conflict Resolution: The Judiciary resolves disputes between individuals, entities,
and the government.

Challenges Facing the Judiciary

The Judiciary faces challenges such as backlog of cases, issues of corruption, and threats
to its independence. These challenges can undermine public confidence in the judicial
system.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the structure of government in Pakistan, comprising the Executive,
Legislature, and Judiciary, is designed to ensure a balanced and accountable system of
governance. Each branch plays a crucial role in maintaining democracy, upholding the rule
of law, and representing the interests of citizens. Despite the challenges each branch
faces, the ongoing evolution of Pakistan’s political framework reflects the country’s
commitment to strengthening its democratic institutions and ensuring effective
governance for all its citizens. As Pakistan continues to navigate its complex political
landscape, the importance of a robust and independent government structure remains
paramount.