How to Become an MNA in Pakistan

How to Become an MNA in Pakistan

Introduction

Becoming a Member of the National Assembly (MNA) in Pakistan is a very respectful and impactful career. MNAs play very important roles in shaping the country's laws and addressing the needs of the people of their area. Becoming an MNA is not so easy, it requires a lot of time and hard work.

If you have a passion for public service and a desire to help your people then you are perfect for the seat of MNA.

In this article, we learn how to become MNA in Pakistan. Read it carefully and comment if you like this article.

Eligibility Criteria

• Citizenship: You must be a citizen of Pakistan.
• Age: You must be at least 25 years old.
• Education: You must be a graduate.
• Voter Enrollment: Your name must be enrolled as a voter in the electoral roll.

Citizenship

First, you must have citizenship in Pakistan. This means you were born in Pakistan or have become a legal citizen. This is important because it shows you care about the country's well-being and future.

Age Requirement

You must be at least 25 years old. This makes sure, that you are mature and have enough life experience for the job.

Education

You need to be a graduate. This means you have finished your college education.

Character and Conduct

You must meet the qualities in Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution of Pakistan. These articles say you need to have good character, know about Islamic teachings, and not have been convicted of certain crimes.

Voter Enrollment

You need to be registered as a voter in any electoral area in Pakistan. Being a registered voter shows, that you take part in the election.

Political Party Membership

Joining a Political Party

In Pakistan, the majority of MNAs are elected through political parties. Therefore, joining a political party is an important step. Choose a party that aligns with your values and vision for the country.

Top 5 Polictiacal parties 

• Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)
• Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)
• Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM)
• Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) - JUI-F

1. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) means "Pakistan Movement for Justice".This political party was started by Imran Khan. He was a former cricketer, in 1996. PTI became a big political party in the 2010s. This party also wins the 2018 election. 

Ideology and Policies

PTI believes in:

• Strong measures against corruption
• Better healthcare and education
• Economic changes to help the country grow and reduce poverty
• Making the judicial system stronger

2. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) was started in 1967 by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He was a popular leader former President and Prime Minister of Pakistan. PPP is one of the oldest and most important political parties in Pakistan.

Ideology and Policies

PPP believes in:

• Social democracy and equality
• Land reforms and labor rights
• Strong provincial autonomy
• Progressive social policies

3. Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) - PML-N

The Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), or PML-N, was started in 1993 by Nawaz Sharif. Nawaz Sharif was a well-known businessman and politician. PML-N is one of the oldest political parties in Pakistan.

Ideology and Policies

PML-N believes in:

• Economic development and infrastructure projects
• Industrialization 
• Strong national defense

4. Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM)

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), originally called the Muhajir Qaumi Movement, was started in 1984 by Altaf Hussain to represent the Urdu-speaking Muhajir community. Over time, MQM has grown to address wider urban issues.

Ideology and Policies

MQM believes in:

• Rights for the urban middle class
• Local governments have more power
• A strong stance against feudalism
• Secularism and progressive social policies

5. Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) - JUI-F

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (Fazlur Rehman Group), known as JUI-F, is an Islamic political party started by Maulana Fazlur Rehman. The party has roots in the Deobandi movement and is influential in religious and conservative circles.

Ideology and Policies

JUI-F believes in:

• Implementation of Sharia law
• Promotion of Islamic education and values
• Social conservatism
• Rights of religious minorities

Election Process

Selection as a Candidate

First, you need to work hard within your political party. Show that you are loyal, dedicated, and have good leadership skills. Your party will look at all possible candidates and choose the best one to represent them.

If you have proven yourself, they might select you as their candidate for the National Assembly.

General Elections

Once you are selected as a candidate then you will participate in general elections. These elections are held every five years unless something unusual happens like the National Assembly being dissolved early. During the campaign, you need to be very active. Go out and meet the voters, listen to their problems, and share your plans and ideas with them. 

Make sure they know who you are and what you stand for.

Winning the Election

If you win the election, you will become a Member of the National Assembly (MNA). This victory means that the people in your area trust you and believe you can represent them well. It is a big responsibility because you will be making important decisions for your country

Taking the Oath

Once elected, you will need to take an oath. This is a formal promise where you agree to follow the country's rules and constitution.

By taking this oath, you show that you will serve the people of Pakistan with honesty and do your best to help the country.

Responsibilities

Representing People

As an MNA, your main job is to speak for the people of your area. You need to listen to their problems, solve area problems, and help the people.

Helping the Government

MNAs also help to run the country. This means making sure laws are followed, checking the government's work, and making sure the government acts in the best interests of the people.

Salary and Allowance

In Pakistan, MNAs receive a base salary of around PKR 150,000 per month, along with allowances such as a daily session allowance of PKR 3,000, a house rent allowance of PKR 70,000 (if not using government housing), and a utility allowance of PKR 50,000. 

They also get travel allowances for official trips and constituency allowances for district expenses. These combined can exceed PKR 300,000 monthly. 

Component	Amount (PKR)
Base Salary	150,000 per month
Daily Allowance	3,000 per session attended
House Rent Allowance	70,000 per month (if not using government housing)
Utility Allowance	50,000 per month
Travel Allowances	Business class air travel for official purposes; mileage allowance for road travel
Constituency Allowances	To cover expenses related to electoral districts
Additional Benefits	Medical coverage, official accommodations, pension schemes

Pay Slip

FAQs

Q: What is the Minimum Age Requirement to Become an MNA?

Ans: The minimum age requirement to become an MNA in Pakistan is 25 years.

Q: Can Independent Candidates Run for MNA?

Ans: Yes, independent candidates can run for MNA positions in Pakistan, although they often face additional challenges compared to party-affiliated candidates.

Q: How Long is the Term for an MNA in Pakistan?

Ans: The term for an MNA in Pakistan is five years unless the National Assembly is dissolved earlier.

Q: What are the Duties of an MNA?

Ans: MNAs are responsible for making laws, representing their constituents, and overseeing the implementation of government policies.

Q: How Can I Improve My Chances of Winning an Election?

Ans: Improving your chances involves effective campaigning, building a strong support network, understanding voter concerns, and presenting a clear and compe