Designing a political system that results in good governance is a challenging task, but a proposed system for Pakistan could incorporate the following key elements:
- A semi-presidential system, in which power is shared between a directly elected president and a prime minister chosen by the legislature.
- The president would have ceremonial duties and limited executive powers, including the ability to veto legislation and appoint senior officials, while the prime minister would be responsible for day-to-day governance and have the support of a cabinet of ministers.
- The parliament would consist of a bicameral legislature, with a lower house elected by the people and an upper house that represents the provinces and other stakeholders.
- To ensure stability and prevent frequent changes of government, a no-confidence vote would require a two-thirds majority in the lower house.
- To promote accountability and transparency, an independent election commission and anti-corruption body would be established, with adequate resources and powers to investigate and prosecute electoral and financial offenses.
- To encourage the participation of citizens in the political process, local government institutions would be empowered with financial resources and decision-making authority.
The success of this proposed system would depend on several conditions, including:
- A strong political culture that values democratic principles, rule of law, and public service.
- A robust and independent judiciary that can provide checks and balances on the executive and legislative branches.
- A free and responsible media that can scrutinize and report on the activities of government and hold officials accountable.
- A capable and efficient bureaucracy that can implement policies and deliver services to citizens.
- A commitment to economic development, social justice, and environmental sustainability, which requires the cooperation of multiple stakeholders and a long-term perspective.
- A willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and compromise across different political parties, ethnic groups, and regions, to build a consensus on key issues and promote national unity.