ELECTORAL FRAUD: A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO DYNASTIC POLITICS IN DISTRICT KARAK-KPK, PAKISTAN (A QUANTITATIVE STUDY)

Abstract

The study was formulated with the aim to evaluate the Electoral fraud as a contributing factor to Dynastic politics in District Karak-KPK, Pakistan. The respondents of study comprised of contestants and winners of Provincial and National Assemblies of District Karak in General Election 2013 as well as winners of the Local Government Election 2015 of District Karak. The total population of study composed 467 politicians, for which sample size of 196 respondents was proportionally allocated to each category and then randomly selected. The conceptual framework of the study comprised a dependent variable (Electoral Fraud) and an independent variable (Dynastic Politics). The data was collected through interview schedule, where study variables were measured using a Likert scale. The collected data was analyzed by using Uni-variate (frequencies and percentages) and Bi-veriate techniques. Chi Square test was used to ascertain associations among study variables. The Chi Square test for association of independent variables and dependent variable shows a highly significant association (P=0.000) was found between intimidation at the polls using private militant gangs or even state security is common. The study recommended awareness raising of general public and the role of mass media regarding voters responsibilities, bringing reforms in policies and laws related to political parties and election. Furthermore, ensure voters security and establishment of political ethics and discouragement of political posting and transfer of judiciary and bureaucracy.