By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE– In a high-level consultative session held in Lahore, HomeNet Pakistan, AwazCDS-Pakistan, and the Pakistan Development Alliance (PDA) came together to spotlight the ongoing constitutional, political, administrative, and financial challenges facing local governments in Pakistan.
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The event marked the official launch of the white paper titled “Legislation Without Movement: The Status of Local Government in Punjab.” The paper highlighted deep-rooted systemic issues and the urgent need for reforms to revive and strengthen local governance.
Zia ur Rehman, Executive Director of AwazCDS-Pakistan, stressed the adverse impact of global funding constraints on development projects. He pointed out that even cantonment areas—typically better funded—were now grappling with reduced autonomy and financial resources. He also emphasized the critical role that empowered local governments play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Ume Laila Azhar, Executive Director of HomeNet Pakistan, called for immediate action to restore fiscal decentralization and democratic accountability. She backed the formation of a four-member committee to engage lawmakers and advance legislative reforms, proposing to utilize support from women MPAs like Begum Sumbal Malik to ensure gender inclusion in local governance policy.
Legal expert and Supreme Court lawyer Ishtiaq Chaudhary called out constitutional violations weakening local governments and urged for amendments, the institutionalization of Provincial Finance Commissions (PFCs) with fixed timelines, and transparent budget practices.
The session also looked ahead to the Asia-Pacific Mayors’ Assembly in September 2025, where Pakistan’s local governance issues can be raised on the global stage.
Among the notable attendees were MPA Sumbal Malik, Anwar Hussain, Sajid Ali, Zafar Malik, Ghulam Fatima, Mahnoor (Moon), and Humera Aslam from HomeNet Pakistan, along with various civil society members, legal experts, and journalists. All participants pledged to keep the momentum going through awareness campaigns, engagement with lawmakers, and focused training sessions.
