مردہ بلدیاتی نظام

The article discusses the importance of a robust local government (بلدیاتی نظام) for a functioning democracy and public service, contrasting successful models in developed countries with Pakistan's historical struggles. It highlights how local bodies are responsible for citizens' daily needs and act as a 'nursery' for political parties. The author criticizes past leaders like Ayub Khan, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, and Zia-ul-Haq for failing to establish effective local governance, leaving citizens neglected. More recently, the article points to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa local elections in 2021 and 2022, where the PTI government, despite initial losses to Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam and later gains, reportedly curtailed the powers of local bodies, indicating a continued neglect of grassroots democracy.