Department of Mathematics Civics And Community Engagement(300.
1)
University Of Karachi
Structure And Function Of Government In Pakistan
Course : Civics And Community Engagement (300.1)
Submitted to: Miss Ambreen
Submitted by: Ayesha Kanwal
Submission Date: October 24, 2025
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Department of Mathematics Civics And Community Engagement(300.1)
Structure Of Government In Pakistan
Pakistan's government is a federal, parliamentary republic
with three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. The
legislative branch consists of the bicameral Parliament (the
National Assembly and the Senate), the executive is led by
the President (head of state) and Prime Minister (head of
government), and the judiciary is headed by the Supreme Court. There are also three tiers of
government: national, provincial, and local.
1. The Executive
President: The president of Pakistan is the ceremonial head of state with some constitutional
powers. The president is elected by an electoral college, which includes members of the parlia-
ment and the provincial assemblies. The president serves a five year term. Although largely a
ceremonial role, the President has specific powers, such as appointing key officials, and can
sometimes play a more active role during political crises.
Prime Minister: The Prime Minister is the head of government and holds the most executive
authority. The Prime Minister is elected by the National Assembly and is responsible for running
the government, implementing laws, and overseeing the federal cabinet. The Prime Minister
leads the executive branch and represents the government both domestically and internation-
ally.
Federal Cabinet: The Federal Cabinet consists of ministers appointed by the Prime Minister.
These ministers are responsible for various government departments and agencies, such as fi-
nance, defense, foreign affairs, and health. The cabinet plays a crucial role in policymaking and
administration.
2. The legislature
Pakistan has a bicameral legislature, meaning it consists of two houses: the National Assembly
and the Senate. Together, these two houses form the Parliament (Majlis-e-Shoora) of Pakistan.
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Department of Mathematics Civics And Community Engagement(300.1)
National Assembly (lower house): The National Assembly is
the directly elected lower house of Parliament. It consists of
members (MNAs) elected by the people through general elec-
tions, which are held every five years. The National Assembly
has 336 members, with seats reserved for women and minori-
ties. The National Assembly plays a key role in passing legislation, approving the budget, and
electing the Prime Minister. Senate ( Upper house) : The Senate represents the provinces and
territories of Pakistan, ensuring equal representation for all federating units regardless of popu-
lation size. It consists of 100 members, with seats allocated to each province, the Federally Ad-
ministered Tribal Areas (FATA), and the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). Senators are elected
by the provincial assemblies and serve for six years, with half of the Senate being re-elected ev-
ery three years. The Senate plays a key role in legislation, especially in matters affecting the
provinces.
3. The Judiciary:
The Judiciary is responsible for interpreting and applying the
law and ensuring justice. It operates independently from the
Executive and Legislature and plays a vital role in maintaining
the rule of law in Pakistan.
Supreme Court: The Supreme Court of Pakistan is the highest
court in the country. It has original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction, meaning it can hear
cases directly, review lower court decisions, and advise the government on legal matters. The
Chief Justice of Pakistan heads the Supreme Court.
High Courts: Each province has its own High Court, which deals with legal matters at the provin-
cial level. There is also a High Court for the Islamabad Capital Territory. High Courts have the
power to hear appeals from lower courts and review administrative actions by the government.
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Department of Mathematics Civics And Community Engagement(300.1)
Lower Courts: These include District and Sessions Courts, which handle civil and criminal cases
at the district level. There are also specialized courts for family matters, consumer rights, and
other specific legal issues.
Federal Shariat Court: This court ensures that laws in Pakistan conform to Islamic principles. It
has the authority to review and strike down laws that it deems inconsistent with Islamic teach -
ings.
Function Of Government In Pakistan
The government of Pakistan, like most governments, performs various functions to maintain
law and order, provide services to citizens, and ensure the well-being and development of the
country. These functions are divided across the different branches of government-executive,
legislative, and judicial-as well as between the federal and provincial governments. Here is an
overview of the key functions of the government in Pakistan:
1. Legislative Functions
Lawmaking: The primary function of the Parliament (Majlis-e-Shooral is to make laws for the
country. This Includes drafting, debating, and passing legislation that governs various aspects of
society, including criminal laws, economic regulations, and social policies.
Amendment of the Constitution: Parliament has the power to amend the Constitution, though
this requires a two-thirds majority in both the National Assembly and the Senate.
2. Executive Functions
Policy Implementation: The executive branch, led by the Prime Minister and the federal cabi-
net, is responsible for implementing laws and policies passed by the Parliament. This includes
executing development projects, managing public services, and enforcing laws.
Public Administration: The government runs various departments and ministries (e.g., health,
education, defense) that manage day-to-day public administration. This includes providing es-
sential services, such as health care, education, infrastructure, and security.
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Department of Mathematics Civics And Community Engagement(300.1)
3. Judicial Functions
Interpretation and Application of Laws: The judiciary interprets [Link] passed by the legisla-
ture and ensures their application in accordance with the Constitution. Courts at various levels
hear cases. related to civil, criminal, and constitutional matters.
Dispute Resolution: The judiciary resolves disputes between individuals, organizations, and the
state. This includes civil litigation, criminal prosecution, and family law matters.
4. Regulatory Functions
Regulation of Industries and Markets: The government regulates various industries and sectors
through laws and regulatory bodies (eg, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan,
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority). These bodies ensure that businesses operate fairly,
safely, and transparently.
Environmental Regulation: The government enforces environmental protection laws and regu-
lations to safeguard natural resources and ensure sustainable development.
5. Social Welfare and Public Services
Poverty Alleviation: Various social welfare programs aim to reduce poverty and support vulner-
able groups, such as cash transfer programs (e.g., the Benazir Income Support Program) and ini-
tiatives to improve housing, nutrition, and employment opportunities.
Disaster Management: The government is responsible for managing and responding to natural
and man-made disasters, providing relief and rehabilitation to affected communities.
Conclusion:
The government of Pakistan operates through a well-defined structure that ensures the division
of powers and responsibilities among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Each
branch plays a vital role in maintaining balance, accountability, and the rule of law within the
country. The executive implements laws and policies, the legislature formulates and passes
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Department of Mathematics Civics And Community Engagement(300.1)
them, while the judiciary safeguards justice and interprets the constitution. Together, these in-
stitutions work to promote good governance, protect citizens’ rights, and strengthen democ-
racy. A transparent and efficient coordination among these organs is essential for political sta-
bility, national development, and the prosperity of Pakistan.