Local Government Reform: Pakistan Needs Stronger Districts

Pakistan does not suffer from a shortage of governments. It suffers from a shortage of effective governance. The Constitution promises power to citizens, yet decisions and resources remain concentrated in provincial capitals.A mother in Khuzdar may wait for a hospital that Quetta fails to fund. Likewise, a father in Sahiwal may send his child to a school that Lahore rarely monitors. The gap between citizens and the state is not about distance. Instead, it comes from files, signatures and political decisions.

Article 140A Needs Stronger Guarantees

Article 140A already requires provinces to devolve political, administrative and financial powers to elected local governments. However, the Constitution does not guarantee fixed terms, timely elections or reliable funding.This weakness creates serious problems. Provincial authorities can dissolve local bodies, delay elections and limit their budgets. As a result, local leaders cannot plan long-term projects or deliver

essential services effectively.A mayor cannot confidently sign a three-year road contract if officials can remove him tomorrow. Similarly, a council cannot hire professionals when its future remains uncertain.The solution does not require a completely new system. Pakistan should strengthen the system that already exists.

First, every elected local government should receive a guaranteed five-year term. Authorities should not dissolve it through an ordinance or executive order.Second, local elections should take place alongside provincial elections. This approach could reduce costs and prevent unnecessary delays.Third, provinces should guarantee local governments a fixed share of development funds. For example, 30 percent could reach districts through a transparent formula.

Give Districts Power and Accountability

These three guarantees can transform local governance. Secure terms would help mayors plan roads, schools and health services beyond short political cycles.Guaranteed funding would also reduce dependence on provincial ministers. Local councils could respond faster to problems because they would control their own resources.Citizens would also gain clearer accountability. If roads fail or clinics lack medicine, voters could identify the responsible local leaders.Pakistan already has districts, tehsil councils and town committees. Therefore, the country does not need to wait for new provinces to improve governance.The reform should begin with Article 140A. Give local governments secure terms, regular elections and reliable funding.Pakistan needs a government that works where people live. Citizens deserve more than promises. They deserve services, accountability and leaders who answer directly to them.