Panel Discussion on “Local Government: Our Chance for Real Democracy”
The team at Courting The Law attended an interactive and interesting panel discussion around local government and its role within the state. The speakers present for the panel included Rafay Alam, Waqas Mir and Umair Javed.
The entire talk focused on the question of whether a local government system would be ideal in a country like Pakistan. It was said that the concept of local governments is fairly a new one to South Asia. However, it was concluded that as long as there is political and democratic will, a local government system can flourish in Pakistan. A reason for its potential success is that it is the 3rd tier of democracy, i.e. it is a process of devolution instead of delegation (Federation- provincial- local). Through devolution, the people themselves can elect their own person of power and hold them accountable. Local governments are responsible and/or have the power over every little aspect which comes under their jurisdiction, such as land, street lights, schools, hospitals, designs of buildings, traffic, etc.
Having said that, the key to implementing a local government successfully, is by raising awareness among the masses so that they know how the process works, which would put them in a better position to cast a vote with better understanding.
Overall, the panel discussion was highly informative and understandable. The team from Courting The Law thoroughly enjoyed the event at The Last Word.
