Experts emphasize collaboration to strengthen local governance

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Apr, 2026) Speakers and participants at a capacity-building workshop on local governance on Thursday stressed the need for stronger collaboration between civil society and political stakeholders to build an effective, transparent, and accountable local government system in Pakistan.

The workshop, organized by AwazCDS-Pakistan in collaboration with Blue Veins, brought together political workers, party representatives, civil society members, and local governance stakeholders.

It aimed to enhance understanding of local governance structures while equipping participants with tools to advocate for stronger grassroots democracy.

Participants noted that local governments play a central role in strengthening democratic processes by enabling citizen participation, improving service delivery, and ensuring accountability at the community level.

However, gaps in political education, inconsistent policy implementation, and limited institutional continuity were identified as key challenges.

Facilitated by governance expert Anwar Hussain, the sessions explored the historical evolution, legal framework, and institutional structure of local governments in Pakistan.

Discussions also examined electoral systems across provinces, offering insights into variations in governance practices. A key focus was the review of political party commitments to local governance.

Participants assessed the gap between manifesto promises and implementation, highlighting the need for sustained political will and institutional reforms.

Recent legislative developments, including proposed amendments to local government laws, were also discussed in terms of their implications for political participation and administrative effectiveness.

The workshop emphasised advocacy as a critical tool for strengthening local democracy. Through case studies and participatory discussions, participants were introduced to practical lobbying strategies and shared experiences from their communities.

Intizar Ali Khalil, Coordinator of the Local Councils Association, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, described local governments as the foundation of democratic governance.

“Local governments serve as a bridge between citizens and higher tiers of authority. Without their full administrative, financial, and political empowerment, meaningful democracy cannot take root,” he said.

He also called for constitutional safeguards, including amendments to Articles 32 and 140. Israr Ullah Khan of Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) highlighted the importance of political education.“Capacity-building initiatives like this are essential to prepare political workers for effective participation in governance and policymaking,” he said.

Zia Ur Rehman, Chief Executive of AwazCDS-Pakistan, stressed that the absence of a fully functional third tier of government undermines democratic governance and inclusive decision-making.

Participants emphasised the need for continued platforms for learning and dialogue, noting that many grassroots political workers lack access to structured training on governance and electoral processes.

The workshop concluded with a shared commitment to promote democratic values, strengthen local government systems, and enhance citizen engagement at the grassroots level.