Challenges To Women’s Political Participation In Local Government Election In Swabi (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa): A Case Study Of 2001 To 2005 Local Electoral Cycle

Abstract

This study explores the persistent challenges hindering women’s political participation in the local government election of 2001and 2005 in Swabi district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Framed within the broader context of Pakistan Devolution reforms under General Pervez Musharraf regime, which introduced gender quota to enhance women representation, the paper critically examines the disconnect between[1] formal inclusion and substantive participation. Drawing on qualitative data including interviews with female candidates, local officials and civil society representatives, the study identifies a range of structural, socio- cultural and institutional barriers. Despite the constitutional and policy frameworks promoting gender inclusion, the study argues that the local governance system remained largely male dominated, with women often relegated to passive role. The paper concludes by offering recommendations for strengthening women’s political agency, including civic education, gender sensitive electoral reforms and gross root capacity building initiatives. By contextualizing women’s political exclusion, this research contributes to understanding the limitation of procedural democracy in deeply patriarchal societies.