LAHORE: A local government system is essential for improving governance and addressing issues at the grassroots level, particularly in education, healthcare, and transportation, stated Prof Dr. Muhammad Ali, Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab (PU). Speaking at a round table discussion held by the Pakistan Study Centre in collaboration with several organizations, he emphasized the need for Parliament to establish local governments to enhance citizen participation in governance.

According to University of the Punjab, the event, titled "Reinforcing Elected Local Governments," gathered various experts, including senior journalists and academic figures, to discuss the importance of local governance. Prof Dr. Muhammad Ali highlighted the growing challenges posed by urban expansion and stressed the role of elected local representatives in aiding ordinary citizens. Senior journalist Sohail Warraich suggested that efforts should be concentrated on strengthening local governments rather than debating new provincial boundaries.

Other speakers, including Salman Ghani and Salman Abid, pointed out the discrepancy between political manifestos and the actual implementation of local governments. They noted that strong local governance is vital for the flourishing of democracy and called for legislative measures to ensure timely elections. The discussion also underscored the role of educational institutions in promoting awareness about local governance, as noted by Baneesh Fatima Sahi of the Local Government Department.

The event concluded with a consensus among participants that sustainable local governments require collective efforts from various stakeholders and that the current system should be improved rather than replaced. The discussions aimed to educate young people on the democratic value of local governance and its role in solving community problems.