Assignment: Provision and Governmental Administrative Structure
of Pakistan
Introduction
Pakistan is a federal parliamentary republic with a complex yet well-defined
governmental and administrative structure. The country’s governance
system is based on the Constitution of 1973, which outlines the division of
powers and responsibilities among different branches of the state. The
administrative framework of Pakistan is organized into federal, provincial,
and local levels, enabling a multi-tiered system of governance aimed at
efficient service delivery and public administration.
1. Constitutional Provisions
The Constitution of Pakistan, promulgated in 1973, is the supreme law of the
land. It provides the framework for the organization, powers, and functions of
the three main branches of government: the executive, the legislature, and
the judiciary.
a. Federal Structure
Pakistan follows a federal structure where power is distributed between the
federal government and the provinces. The Constitution defines the roles and
responsibilities of both levels of government through the Federal Legislative
List and the Provincial Legislative List.
b. 18th Constitutional Amendment
One of the most significant reforms in recent history, the 18th Amendment,
was passed in 2010. It devolved many subjects from the federal government
to the provinces, enhancing provincial autonomy and strengthening the
federal system.
2. Governmental Structure of Pakistan
Pakistan has a parliamentary system of governance, with the President as
the ceremonial head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of
government.
a. Executive Branch
President: The President is the ceremonial head of state and is
elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both houses
of Parliament and the provincial assemblies.
Prime Minister: The Prime Minister holds the executive powers and is
the leader of the majority party in the National Assembly.
Cabinet: Comprising federal ministers, the cabinet is responsible for
various ministries such as finance, education, defense, and health.
b. Legislative Branch
The legislature is bicameral, consisting of:
National Assembly (Lower House): Members are directly elected by
the people through general elections. It plays a key role in law-making,
budget approval, and oversight of the executive.
Senate (Upper House): Members are elected by provincial assemblies
and represent the provinces equally. The Senate provides stability and
balance to the legislative process.
c. Judicial Branch
The judiciary in Pakistan is independent and responsible for interpreting the
Constitution and laws. The judicial hierarchy includes:
Supreme Court of Pakistan (apex court)
High Courts in each province
Federal Shariat Court
District and Session Courts
The judiciary ensures justice, resolves disputes, and protects the rights of
citizens.
3. Provincial Government Structure
Each of Pakistan's four provinces—Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and
Balochistan—has its own government structure consisting of:
Provincial Assembly: Unicameral legislature responsible for making
laws on provincial matters.
Chief Minister: Head of the provincial government, elected by the
Provincial Assembly.
Governor: Appointed by the President as the ceremonial head of the
province.
Provincial governments manage education, health, agriculture, local law
enforcement, and other services within their jurisdiction.
4. Local Government System
Local governments form the third tier of administration and are responsible
for grassroots-level governance. Their main functions include the provision of
basic services like sanitation, water supply, education, and municipal
services.
Local government structures typically include:
District Councils
Tehsil/Taluka Councils
Union Councils
These bodies are elected by the local population and play a crucial role in
community development and governance.
5. Administrative Divisions
Administratively, Pakistan is divided into several hierarchical units:
Provinces (4): Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan
Territories: Islamabad Capital Territory, Azad Jammu and Kashmir,
Gilgit-Baltistan
Divisions
Districts
Tehsils (Sub-districts)
Union Councils (lowest administrative unit)
This multi-layered administrative setup facilitates efficient governance and
service delivery at all levels.
