Lahore: Former federal ministers and political leaders have supported constitutional amendments for the creation of new provinces and granting greater powers to local governments, stating that the existing governance system has failed and requires major reforms.
A special seminar titled “What is Governance in the System?” was organized by the University of Lahore, where former federal ministers and political figures, including Muhammad Ali Durrani, Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar, Waseem Akhtar, Fawad Chaudhry, Asad Umar, Liaquat Baloch and others addressed participants.
Muhammad Ali Durrani said that constitutional amendments are needed at this stage. He recalled his support for the creation of South Punjab and Bahawalpur provinces, adding that the political system needs improvement and family-based politics should come to an end.
Former caretaker prime minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar said that Pakistan lacks true civilian supremacy and that ordinary citizens’ voices are not being heard. He emphasized the need for strong local governments and better administrative units.
MQM leader Waseem Akhtar said the governance system had collapsed decades ago and stressed that strengthening the local government system should be a priority. He said he had consistently supported an empowered local government structure.
Former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry said that Pakistan needs a new system, pointing out economic and social challenges facing the country. He supported the creation of new provinces, strengthening local governments, and making divisions into provinces as possible solutions.
Former federal minister Asad Umar said democracy is essential for a country like Pakistan and called for constitutional reforms to implement an effective local government system. He suggested that funds should be allocated among the federal government, provinces, and a third tier of government through the NFC framework.
Jamaat-e-Islami leader Liaquat Baloch said Pakistan has been facing crises for decades and emphasized the importance of constitutional supremacy, justice, and an effective governance system. He criticized the dominance of personalities within political parties.
Former Supreme Court Bar Association president Ahsan Bhoon said governance is Pakistan’s biggest challenge. He stated that all political parties should follow a consistent constitutional process and ensure parliamentary supremacy.
The participants agreed that reforms in governance, decentralization of powers, and restructuring of administrative units are necessary for improving the country’s political and administrative system.
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