The implementation of Article 140-A is crucial to the future of Pakistan. It states: "140A. Local Government. - (1) Each Province shall, by law, establish a local government system and devolve political, administrative and financial responsibility and authority to the
elected representatives of the local governments." Now there are issues of political will here and so, though am not a fan of judicial activism, here unfortunately the SC may well have to step in on the pending petition of Waseem Akhtar. And if, for example, Punjab implements it
It will add to the pressure on other provinces. Devolution of power to provincial level was a good start, in accordance with the letter of the 18th Amendment. However, the spirit of 18thA demands further devolution, and so does good governance. This should not be controversial.
This is an administrative issue, and not empowering local bodies is an actual, bonafide violation of the constitution. You cannot simply cite those parts of the constitution that favour you politically.
This is why the 'more provinces' debate rises from time to time, with predictable results and emotive reactions. Want to end it? Empower local bodies. But then, that's one less political card to play.
To add: it is an unfortunate legacy of our political history that LB have mostly been promoted/ empowered by dictators - for their own (nefarious) purpose of replacing the political class - and so are viewed as dangerous to said class. But fixing roads etc is not MPA/ MNA's job.
Their job is to represent their constituents at a prov and national level. Replacing manhole covers and fixing sewage lines is the local Councillors job.
