The Constitution of 1962 represented a departure from parliamentary democracy to a presidential system in Pakistan. Introduced during President Ayub Khan’s regime, it aimed to provide stability and governance efficiency.
Established a presidential form of government, concentrating executive authority in the President.
Introduced a system of Basic Democracies, creating local bodies for decentralized governance.
Implemented an electoral system with indirect elections for the President and Basic Democracies.
Granted extensive powers to the President, including the ability to dissolve the National Assembly.
Imposed restrictions on political activities and the formation of political parties.
Encouraged the inclusion of technocrats in the government to enhance administrative efficiency.
Retained certain Islamic provisions but with a more pragmatic approach to governance.
Abolished the existing provincial boundaries and replaced them with administrative units.
Introduced the concept of “single-point advice,” limiting the President’s need to consult multiple sources.
Facilitated easier amendments to the constitution through the President’s decree.
The Constitution of 1962, though providing a stable governance structure, faced criticism for its concentration of power in the hands of the President. Its short-lived existence paved the way for subsequent constitutional reforms in Pakistan.