Government Clarifies: No Change to Pakistan Voting Age of 18
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has unequivocally rejected rumors suggesting the government intends to raise the minimum Pakistan voting age from 18 to 25. He dismissed these reports as baseless, attributing them to a calculated disinformation campaign.
Subsequently, Iqbal clarified on his X account that numerous citizens had inquired about the alleged proposal. He confirmed that the government has neither reviewed any such plan nor is it introducing legislation to alter the voting age. Therefore, the current age requirement remains unchanged.
Protecting Youth Voting Rights in Pakistan
Iqbal further emphasized the government’s profound trust in Pakistan’s youth. Consequently, he stated there is absolutely no intention of restricting their fundamental constitutional right to vote. He accused opposition elements of disseminating false narratives, aiming to generate controversy and mislead the public for partisan political gain.
In fact, he reiterated, “No proposal is under consideration, and no legislation is being discussed in any joint session of Parliament to raise the voting age.” Iqbal profoundly regards young Pakistanis as a crucial national asset, fully capable of making informed decisions regarding the nation’s future. These individuals are vital for the country’s progress.
Dispelling Misinformation: The Official Stance
The Planning Minister’s strong clarification follows several days of circulating reports. These reports erroneously suggested that the government was actively considering an increase in the election age law. However, the official stance confirms these claims are entirely unfounded. Ultimately, the government remains committed to its existing policy.
The Importance of Youth Engagement in Voting
Maintaining the current voting age of 18 underscores the government’s recognition of youth as active participants in the democratic process. Engaging young voters ensures a representative government and a dynamic future for the nation. Therefore, empowering youth through their vote is a cornerstone of democratic stability.
