Editorial
Transparent elections are critical for political stability because they enhance the legitimacy and accountability of the political system, reduce the potential for conflict and violence, and foster citizen participation and trust. Transparent elections are those that are conducted in a free and fair manner, where all eligible voters have equal access to information and opportunities to cast their ballots, where the votes are counted accurately and impartially, and where all parties respect the results. When elections meet these standards, they confer legitimacy to the elected representatives and the government, as they reflect the will of the people. This also creates a sense of responsibility and accountability among the political leaders, as they know that they can be voted out of office if they fail to deliver on their promises or abuse their power. Transparent elections thus ensure that the political system is responsive and representative of the citizens’ interests and preferences.
Transparent elections can also reduce the likelihood of political instability, conflict, and violence, as they provide a peaceful and institutionalized way of resolving disputes and redistributing power. When elections are transparent, the losing parties and candidates have less incentive to challenge or reject the outcome, as they have confidence in the electoral process and its fairness. This reduces the risk of post-election violence or civil war, as well as the need for external intervention or mediation. Transparent elections can also prevent or mitigate pre-election violence, as they discourage electoral malpractices such as intimidation, fraud, or vote-buying, which can trigger protests or clashes among supporters of different parties or candidates.
Please, subscribe to the website of republicpolicy.com
Transparent elections can also foster citizen participation and trust in the political system, as they enhance the quality and credibility of democracy. When elections are transparent, citizens are more likely to exercise their right to vote, as they feel that their voice matters and that their vote counts. This also increases their sense of civic duty and political efficacy, as they see themselves as active agents of change rather than passive spectators. Moreover, transparent elections can boost citizen trust in the political institutions and actors, as they demonstrate that they are accountable and respectful of the rule of law. This can also improve the relationship between the government and the opposition, as well as between different social groups, as they recognize each other as legitimate and equal partners in the democratic process.
Lastly, transparent elections are essential for political stability, as they ensure that the political system is legitimate, accountable, responsive, representative, peaceful, institutionalized, credible, participatory, and trustworthy. Therefore, Pakistan must hold transparent elections for political stability, which is vital for economic development and growth. For example, the PDM government came into power through a vote of no confidence, apparently a constitutional way of transfer of power. Even then, the political stability was distorted because PTI claimed to have a majority in the National Assembly and, therefore, ran a campaign for early elections. As a result, the political stability was compromised, and it brought economic downfall. If elections are not held transparently, still the issue will not be resolved, and there will be more agitation on the roads, bringing more political stability and unrest, determinantal for economic and administrative stability. Therefore, it is vital for the interest of Pakistan’s economy and democracy that elections are held free and transparent while providing an equal playing field for both PDM and PTI.
Please, subscribe to the monthly magazines of republicpolicy.com
