HRCP and Dehleez Consult on Local Government Constitutional Safeguards

The Human Rights Commission Pakistan (HRCP) recently collaborated with Dehleez to host a consultation focusing on the necessity of constitutional safeguards for local government. The event aimed to address the challenges faced by local government entities in Pakistan and propose solutions through a constitutional amendment to Article 140A.

The consultation featured discussions led by Director Farah Zia and civic educator Zafarullah Khan, who emphasized the need for stronger constitutional protections and timely local government elections for effective citizen representation. Various stakeholders, including legislators like PML-N MNA Bilal Kiyani and AWP’s Farman Ali, voiced their support for the proposed amendment to ensure the continuity of local governments and enhance governance processes.

Recommendations put forward during the consultation included the establishment of standing committees, democratization of political parties, and empowering marginalized groups in local government elections. PPP representative Sibte Haider Bukhari and FAFEN National Coordinator Rashid Chaudhry highlighted the significance of empowering local governments and aligning provincial shares with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

HRCP secretary-general Harris Khalique reiterated the importance of streamlining local government processes and expressed HRCP’s commitment to further dialogues to garner support for the constitutional amendment. The consultation served as a platform for diverse stakeholders to come together and advocate for stronger constitutional safeguards to enhance local governance in Pakistan.