IN the current uncertain environment, it is essential to recognize the significant role that empowering local governments play in fostering a more adaptable and robust political system. Despite the existence of constitutional support for decentralization through Article 140A and Article 32, Pakistan’s local governance structure continues to be hampered by a plethora of challenges. The lack of local government creates a gap between policymakers and the public, making existing issues worse and causing people to lose interest in the current political system. It leads to a culture of dependency, where the citizens are passive receivers of top-down governance rather than being involved in bottom-up governance of being involved in making decisions that affect their own lives and the generations to come.
The policy landscape is a complex and contradictory environment that presents a curious paradox. Despite the NFC Award and the 18th Amendment, local governments continue to face challenges in terms of autonomy, resources and institutional capacity. The specific provisions outlined in the various Local Government Acts at the provincial level play a crucial role in shaping the functioning of local governments. It’s important to recognize that local government representatives have the potential to play a more significant role than just being service providers. They can become key drivers of progress in areas such as environmental, social and governance initiatives, corporate social responsibility and community development.
What exactly does Article 140A entail and why are provincial governments hesitant to transfer power to the local level? Article 140A of the Constitution stipulates that all governments must transfer administrative, financial and political powers from the federal to the provincial and from the provincial to the local governments. This includes maintaining the continuity of elections and devolving powers to elected individuals from non-elected ones, such as the bureaucracy. Article 32 of the Constitution guarantees the participation of marginalized groups, including women, minorities, peasants and labourers in local government elections. Additionally, Article 10 of the Charter of Democracy, signed by Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif in London, emphasizes the establishment of a robust local government system under Article 140A when governments come into power. They specifically referred to it as “local government” rather than “local body”. Therefore, anyone discussing policymaking on this issue should consider Article 140A and Article 32 of the Constitution as the benchmarks. Violating these laws would indicate an attempt to establish a system that serves the vested interests of provincial governments, as none of them are inclined to relinquish power.
Pakistan’s political system has become a power struggle among the ruling class, neglecting the well-being of citizens. The country’s UN Human Development Index ranking and rising poverty levels are concerning.
To advance, Pakistan needs to prioritize human development by empowering local governments. Empowered local bodies facilitate inclusive growth, efficient resource allocation and development projects. Decentralizing decision-making authority encourages innovation, reduces bureaucratic hurdles and promotes social cohesion. To address this, Pakistan must implement a comprehensive reform agenda, revitalizing local government institutions and ensuring autonomy, capacity and accountability. This could unlock Pakistan’s vibrant democracy, transform governance, empower communities and build a more just society.
—The writer is a PhD candidate for Politics and IR at Keele University.
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