World – (Special Correspondent / Web Desk) -Analysts list many strong reasons to avoid creating new provinces right now. The country’s political and economic state is fragile, and stability could be at risk. They believe the most urgent reforms should come first.
Another major problem is the unclear public policy on this divisive issue. Should new provinces be made for better administration under a central system? Or should they be based on ethnicity to create a fairer federal democracy?
A growing number of experts believe real democracy starts by empowering local communities. When local bodies and citizens can shape their own future, it matches the Constitution’s vision. This way, people can easily reach their local leaders, who live in the same neighborhoods.
Creating new provinces under the current mixed system is like putting the cart before the horse. For example, Balochistan was created in 1970. Its struggle for real control over its own resources and decisions is well-known.
Strong local governments could greatly reduce public unhappiness. People would have direct access to basic services right in their own communities.
Looking at recent unrest in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, analysts warn that ignoring public anger costs more than implementing reforms.
A well-known governance expert agrees. He states that empowered local governments in Pakistan would ease dissatisfaction by delivering services directly to people.
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Some lessons from the country’s past were included in the 1973 Constitution. The 18th Amendment was a step toward giving provinces more power.
On the International Day of Democracy, the Prime Minister said the Constitution gives equal status to all provinces. It defines and protects the fundamental rights of all citizens.
Economist Dr. Ishrat Husain suggests a fiscal solution. He says provincial finance commissions should give at least 30-40% of provincial funds to local governments. This would let them manage their own budgets, especially favoring poorer districts.
British economist Paul Collier suggests a similar fix for “left-behind” areas in developed countries. His solution is local control combined with steady funding. This gives discouraged communities the tools and hope to build a better future.
The United States faces this same issue. A recent poll found that only 25% of Americans believe they can improve their living standard. Most lack confidence that the next generation will do better.
In his book, Collier argues that globalization has not helped the world’s poorest billion people. Instead, it often leaves them further behind and marginalized.
Dr. Husain stresses that empowered local bodies are more effective than new provinces. He points to Article 140-A of the Constitution, which should give local governments control over key areas.
These areas include primary and secondary schools, local healthcare, water supply, waste disposal, local roads, and community development. The staff for these services would be transferred to local control.
On the revenue side, local governments should collect taxes like property and agricultural taxes. They would then spend these resources in their own areas. Evidence shows that collecting taxes and fees is easier at the local level.
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