Islamabad: The federal government has dismissed reports suggesting that it is considering increasing Pakistan’s minimum voting age from 18 to 25 following recent remarks by a senior political adviser that sparked public debate.
According to Beyond Time News, Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar clarified on Monday that no proposal to raise the voting age is currently under consideration by the government.
“Why should we comment on rumours? No such proposals are under discussion,” Tarar said while responding to media questions.
Debate Started After Rana Sanaullah’s Remarks
The discussion began after Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah spoke about the issue during a television interview while discussing matters related to the proposed 28th Constitutional Amendment.
During the interview, Rana Sanaullah pointed out that candidates cannot contest elections before the age of 25 and suggested that if voting age debates continue, the age for contesting elections could also be reviewed.
His remarks quickly triggered political reactions and public debate on youth participation in Pakistan’s democratic system.
Current Voting Rules in Pakistan
Under Pakistan’s existing election laws, citizens become eligible to vote at the age of 18. To register as a voter, individuals must meet residency requirements in the relevant electoral area.
The voting age of 18 has remained a key part of Pakistan’s democratic framework for years and aligns with international standards followed in many countries.
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Opposition Leaders React
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said he did not view the proposal as a serious move but warned that limiting voting rights for young citizens could negatively impact democracy.
According to Beyond Time News, Gohar stated that the United Nations considers people between the ages of 15 and 29 as youth, adding that young citizens should remain part of the democratic process.
JUI-F Supports Voting Rights for 18-Year-Olds
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) leader Kamran Murtaza also opposed the idea of increasing the voting age.
He argued that if an 18-year-old is legally recognized as an adult and allowed to marry, they should also retain the constitutional right to vote.
Political analysts say the debate has once again highlighted discussions surrounding youth engagement, democratic participation, and electoral reforms in Pakistan.
Public Discussion Continues
Although the government has officially denied considering any such proposal, the issue has sparked widespread conversation on social media and political platforms.
Experts believe youth participation remains an important element in Pakistan’s electoral landscape, especially as young voters make up a significant portion of the country’s population.
FAQs
Q1: Is Pakistan increasing the voting age to 25?
No, the government has denied reports about raising the voting age.
Q2: What is the current voting age in Pakistan?
Citizens can vote after reaching the age of 18.
Q3: Who sparked the debate?
The discussion started after remarks by PM aide Rana Sanaullah during a TV interview.
Q4: What did PTI say about the proposal?
PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan said restricting youth voting rights could affect democracy.
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#VotingAge #PakistanPolitics #Democracy #YouthVote #Islamabad #ElectionReforms #PTI #BeyondTimeNews
