SECTARIANISM AND DEMOCRACY: ANALYZING VOTER BEHAVIOR IN DISTRICT CHITRAL, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA

Abstract

This study focuses on the effects of a sectarian identity on voting behavior in District Chitral which is a unique district having both Sunni and Ismaili communities. It analyzes how a voter's religion affects his political preferences, the factors which make him vote and even the turnout rate in different precincts. The study enhances the understanding of the importance of the sect as a factor in electoral results by providing a mix sampling that represents the region under survey with the help of a descriptive research design which is relevant to the demographics of the district. The results reveal that the Sunni members of the electorate are inclined to support PTI While Ismaili ones tend to support PPP, thereby portraying evidence of a sectarian split between the parties in focal concept. Other important aspects that affect the electoral behavior of voters include sectarianism, the characteristics of the candidates and the party policies, whereas the most important focus is placed on sectarianism. The research also provides an explanation for the variation in voter participation between Sunni, Ismaili and mixed constituencies, thereby explaining the complex nexus between religion and politics in Chitral. Demographic data covers the analysis with insights into voting behavior and influence factors on election decisions included.

Keywords: Sectarianism, Voting Behavior, Political Identity, District Chitral, Electoral Dynamics