Daily Times

Transparency concerns rise as most parties fail to provide key information online

ISLAMABAD – A new report by the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) reveals that out of 166 registered political parties in Pakistan, only 58 have partially or fully active websites.

According to the report, just 35% of political parties maintain any online presence, raising serious questions about transparency and public access to information. Even among the 20 parties represented in parliament, only 14 have functioning websites.

FAFEN highlighted that most parties are not fulfilling constitutional requirements regarding the disclosure of key organizational information online. Only 40 parties have published lists of their central office-bearers, while a mere six have shared details of their executive committees.

Moreover, the report pointed out that many parties rely solely on social media and fail to treat websites as essential public communication tools. Financial transparency remains alarmingly low—only one party has published financial statements.

In addition, none of the active websites provide information about how candidates are selected or the structure of their general councils. This lack of transparency undermines internal democracy within the political system.

FAFEN praised Jamaat-e-Islami’s website for being the most informative, while noting that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) website is only accessible via VPN, limiting public reach and visibility. The report calls for urgent improvements to meet democratic and constitutional standards.