Editorial note: Reviewed 22 July 2026. This article distinguishes official results from later political and legal developments. Check ECP records for final constituency tables and dated party position.
At a glance
| Polling date | 25 July 2018 |
|---|---|
| System | Direct election from territorial constituencies; the wider legal framework differed by election. |
| Primary source | Election Commission of Pakistan reports and notifications. |
Background
The election occurred after the PML-N government completed its term under a caretaker administration.
Main competitors
PTI, PML-N and PPP were the principal nationwide parties, with regional parties holding coalition significance.
What happened?
PTI emerged as the largest party in the National Assembly but required allies and independents to govern.
Government formation and aftermath
Imran Khan became prime minister. His coalition government ended after a successful vote of no confidence in April 2022.
Why this election matters
The election reshaped the party system around PTI’s rise and set the stage for intense disputes over accountability, civil-military relations, economic governance and electoral legitimacy.
Questions for further study
- How did the constitutional and electoral rules shape the result?
- Did the votes-to-seats relationship differ across provinces?
- What changed between the official result and the later party position?
- How did this contest affect the next election or constitutional phase?
Sources and further reading
- Election Commission of Pakistan — General Election Reports
- Election Commission of Pakistan — institutional introduction
- Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan — National Assembly
Last reviewed: 22 July 2026. If you spot an error, please use our corrections process.
