Rawalpindi: The voter registration rate in Rawalpindi has reached 60% of its projected 2025 population, surpassing the national average of 54%, according to new data. This figure reflects the district's proactive approach in securing voter participation ahead of upcoming electoral events.
According to Free and Fair Election Network, these statistics are compiled from district-wise electoral roll data released by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on December 30, 2025. The data is cross-referenced with population estimates from the 2023 Digital Census, applying a 2.1% annual growth rate to derive Rawalpindi’s 2025 population estimate of 6,378,603.
In Rawalpindi, 3.8 million residents are registered to vote, comprising 1.9 million males and an equal number of females. With a male registration rate of 60% and a female rate of 59%, the district ranks 22nd nationally in voter registration rates and 13th within Punjab. This registration success is attributed to specific rules from the 2023 Digital Census, which accounted for individuals based on their current residence rather than their permanent address, thus affecting the voter registration denominator.
Labour migration patterns have also contributed to the inflated registration rate. Many permanent residents work in major urban centers and were counted at their work locations during the census, yet remain registered to vote in Rawalpindi due to their permanent identification records. This discrepancy results in a registration ratio that exceeds the national average.
Female voter representation stands at 48.8% in Rawalpindi, highlighting a minimal gender gap in voter registration. Despite the district's high registration rates, continued efforts are essential to ensure equitable female participation in the electoral process.