Electoral Politics and Governance under the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN): Implications for Political Development, 2013–2018

Abstract

This study examines how the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s 2013–2018 governance affected Pakistan’s democratic consolidation, focusing on federal institutional reforms, civil-military relations, and accountability. The 2013 election marked the first civilian-to- civilian transition, testing whether democracy could deepen amid a history of military dominance. Using a qualitative, descriptive-analytical approach, data from official records, manifestos, and legislative documents were analyzed across six governance indicators. The PML-N advanced economic growth and CPEC energy projects, but weak parliamentary oversight and rapid approval of the 21st Amendment exposed fragile accountability. Civil- military frictions and the Panama Papers verdict further undermined institutional stability. While democratic continuity endured, liberal-institutional quality declined, as reflected in a drop in Voice & Accountability scores. Strengthening pre-legislative scrutiny, depoliticizing judicial appointments, enforcing transparent campaign finance, and ensuring civilian oversight of defence allocations are vital for deepening democratic consolidation.