By Riaz Begum, Advocate, Supreme Court of Pakistan
This paper analyzes the doctrine of separation of powers in Pakistan from 1947 to the present. It examines how constitutional provisions, judicial rulings, and political practices have influenced the division of authority among the legislature, executive, and judiciary. The study highlights the consequences of repeated departures from this principle on governance and democracy in Pakistan.
Key Insights
- Pakistan’s constitutional journey demonstrates recurring struggles to maintain a functional separation of powers.
- Judicial interventions and executive dominance have frequently undermined the constitutional balance.
- Weak institutional checks have enabled both political and military forces to expand their influence.
- Ensuring respect for constitutional boundaries is vital to strengthening democracy and governance.

Readers are invited to read the full article for a detailed historical and constitutional discussion below:
