Slight low turnout, but massive enthusiasm among voters in GE2018

Dunya News

Voter turnout was slight low this time, but masses performed their national duty enthusiastically.

(Web Desk) - Though voter turnout increased in the political history of Pakistan, but in General Elections 2018 this remained slight low, relatively. As compared to turnout rate of previous General Election 2013, it abridged to one percent. Turnout in every election and in every country is quite crucial to consider as it not only defines the interest of the people in country’s affairs but also explores the confidence they have over electoral process.

According to Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), a huge number of Pakistanis got out of their home and voted for their favorite politicians. In Punjab, the turnout was 55 per cent; in Sindh it was 48 per cent. While in KP and Balochistan it was 45 per cent.

 Also read: Pakistan Election 2018 results: Party positions and list of winning candidates

Source: Election Commission of Pakistan


Turnout in previous elections

In 2013, voter turnout was 53 per cent, slight more than the one of this year.

In 2008, voter turnout was 44 per cent. Pakistan People’s party formed the federal government.

In 2002, voter turnout was 40 per cent. In this election PML-Q formed the government.

In 1997, voter turnout was 35 per cent, and Muslim League came in power.

In 1993, voter turnout was 39, and in 1990, it was 46 per cent.

In 1988, around 42 per cent voters used their right of vote casting.


Turnout in other countries

In recent 2018 general election in Turkey, voter turnout remained 87 per cent.

In 2017 election in Canada, it was 69 per cent while the same ratio was recorded in England.

Voter turnout in United States of America (USA) 2016 presidential election remained 58 per cent.

While turnout in India in 2014 election was 67 per cent.

Although voter turnout was slightly low this time, but masses were quite eager to participate in election. They indeed got out of their homes and performed their national duty. The pep of disable persons and even the young and old generation alike was worth praising. Next government should come up to their expectations if it really wants to survive.

By Junaid Ali Malik