Despite the federal government’s broader push for digital transformation, the National Assembly Secretariat continues to operate through traditional, paper-based processes, as its e-office system—introduced over ten years ago—remains inactive and unutilized. Installed by the National Information Technology Board (NITB) during 2014–15, the system has never been fully implemented, raising serious concerns about institutional inefficiency and the loss of a valuable digital asset.
According to sources, NITB had completed all the technical groundwork for the e-office rollout, including providing infrastructure and staff training. However, the responsibility for putting the system into operation rested with the National Assembly Secretariat, which has not yet transitioned to digital workflows. Routine administrative activities—including approvals, documentation, and internal communication—are still handled manually using physical files.
This stagnation sharply contrasts with the government’s digital initiatives across other departments, where e-governance systems are being actively used to boost productivity, transparency, and cost-effectiveness. Experts now view the National Assembly’s failure to adopt its digital system as a missed opportunity to modernize and streamline legislative administration.
Concerns have also been raised about the risk of technological obsolescence, as the system has never been upgraded or practically engaged. With the government championing initiatives like Digital Pakistan and pushing for paperless environments, the National Assembly’s lag in this domain stands out as an anomaly. While other public sector bodies have implemented tools like the e-Pak Acquisition and Disposal System (EPADS), the Assembly Secretariat has yet to follow suit.
Repeated attempts to obtain an official explanation from the Secretariat have been met with silence, further amplifying concerns about institutional inertia and a lack of accountability. Critics argue that the continued use of paper files not only delays decision-making but also undermines transparency, hinders audits, and creates unnecessary administrative burdens.
More than a decade after its installation, the e-office platform remains dormant and underleveraged, prompting calls for an audit into its implementation and operational oversight. Analysts suggest that a strategic review is needed to assess whether the platform can be revived with upgrades—or if a new, modern solution must be developed from scratch to align with current digital governance standards.
The case of the National Assembly’s dormant e-office system serves as a stark reminder that technology investments alone are not enough; they must be accompanied by strong institutional will, leadership commitment, and consistent follow-through to drive real transformation.
