Faith
Pakistani Christians Demand Right to Elect Representatives
Faith Facts
- Punjab’s new Local Government Act limits direct elections for minority-reserved seats.
- Christian leaders argue this violates constitutional rights and weakens minority representation.
- Faith-based groups petition the Lahore High Court for electoral reform.
Christians in Punjab, Pakistan, are raising their voices against a new law that restricts religious minorities from directly electing their own representatives in local government.
This law replaces direct elections for reserved seats with a party-selection process, igniting concerns about the erosion of democratic participation and Biblical justice.
“The right to elect one’s own representatives is fundamental to meaningful participation,” said Samson Salamat, chairman of Rwadari Tehreek (Movement for Equality).
He emphasized the danger of weakening the role of religious minorities, women, and laborers in government, stating that only genuine participation upholds justice.
Katherine Sapna, executive director of Christians True Spirit, appealed to the protections granted in Pakistan’s constitution, stressing the need for genuine authority and accountability in local government.
“Instead of reforming the law, the Punjab government has repeated the injustice and deprived Christians and other minorities of electing their own representatives even at the local government level,” she said.
Faith-based organizations and advocates have filed a petition in the Lahore High Court, seeking amendments to restore the right to direct elections for reserved seats.
The call for reform is a plea for justice and equality, echoing Biblical values of integrity and stewardship for all people.