Lahore : A provincial-level conference organized by social and civil society organizations demanded the immediate announcement and conduct of local government elections in Punjab.
The participants emphasized that strong and effective democracy is only
possible through a stable and empowered local government system.
Speaking at the conference, Punjab Minister for Local Government, Zeeshan Rafiq, assured participants that the Punjab Government is committed to holding local government elections soon. He stated that the government has already completed the initial arrangements and handed over related matters to the Election Commission of Punjab. He further explained that, according to legal and constitutional requirements, the Election Commission is expected to complete its
preparations within two months.
The minister added that whenever the issue of strengthening local governments and conducting elections has arisen, Pakistan Muslim League (N) has consistently supported the process, believing that democratic continuity depends on strong local governments.
During the conference, Member of the Provincial Assembly Tariq Subhani also
highlighted the importance of local governments. Representatives from social
organizations, including Baidarie, South Asia Partnership Pakistan, and several
other groups appreciated the role of civil society in promoting early local
government elections and strengthening democratic institutions.
The conference approved an eight-point “Charter of Demand,” which included the
following key recommendations:
1. Immediate conduct of local government elections and early announcement of the
final election schedule.
2. Direct elections on political party basis for all seats.
3. Transfer of powers to the grassroots level.
4. Ensuring effective representation and inclusion of women, farmers, laborers,
transgender persons, Minorities, persons with disabilities, and other
marginalized communities through direct elections.
5. Full financial autonomy for local governments.
6. Establishment of a transparent and accountable governance system.
7. Promotion of public participation and consultation, especially at the village level.
8. Providing strong constitutional protection to elected local governments to prevent unnecessary dissolution or delays.
The conference also announced the formation of a Provincial Alliance for the restoration of local governments in Punjab. The alliance will work across the province to build public opinion and political pressure for immediate local
government elections. Public conventions will also be organized in different districts to raise awareness and demand timely elections.
More than 22 districts from across Punjab were represented at the conference, with participation from political, social, and civil society organizations, Advocates, stakeholders, journalists, and community representatives.
Among the speakers were representatives from Baidarie Sialkot and South Asia
Partnership Pakistan, including Arshad Mahmood Mirza and Irfan Mufti. Other
notable participants included Salman Abid, senior journalist Suleman Ghani,
Muhammad Tahseen, Bushra Khalique, and Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora Provincial
Minister (Human Rights & Minorities Affairs).
