LG reps say non-release of funds affecting system

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Deputy Speaker Suriyya Bibi on Monday said that the delay in the release of funds to the local government hindered the effectiveness of strong and empowered local governments.

Speaking at an orientation session for heads of local government representatives under the KP Local Government Act 2013, she highlighted the pressing issue of delayed fund releases for local government representatives, which exacerbated financial crises and hindered their effectiveness.

Suriyya Bibi reaffirmed the commitment of the KP government to strengthen the local government system and ensure timely fund disbursement. She advocated for inclusive governance that amplified the voices of women and marginalized communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The session organized by the Centre for Peace and Development Initiative (CPDI) focused on clarifying the role of LG representatives while addressing challenges amid the current political and economic turmoil.

Local Council Association Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President Himayatullah Mayar and former LG Secretary Hifz-ur-Rehman advocated for the timely release of funds to empower representatives in effectively serving their communities and fostering development.

Himayatullah Mayar talked about the challenges facing local governments, particularly funding and authority. He criticized proposed rules for tehsil councils, stating they clashed with Article 140-A of the Constitution and undermined elected representatives. He called for reforms, including restoring the LG Act 2019, ensuring timely fund releases, and providing necessary resources for local governments in merged districts.

He added that he had asked the chief minister through a letter to intervene to establish a functional local government system, emphasizing the need for equitable resource distribution and honouraria for elected officials. He advocated for the establishment of tehsil offices and the nomination of local representatives to various boards to enhance governance effectiveness.

Hifz-ur-Rehman, former Secretary of Local Government, Elections, and Rural Development KP, conducted a session on the roles and responsibilities of local government representatives under the KP Local Government Act.

He engaged participants in a focused discussion about the powers and functions of local government officials, using practical examples to illustrate key concepts and enhance understanding.

Dr Taj Muharram, a senior academician, provided an insightful overview of the historical evolution and legislative framework of local governance in Pakistan.He focused on the development of the local government system, emphasizing its constitutional and legal foundations.

The session was aimed at clarifying key concepts for elected representatives, enhancing their understanding from a political science perspective and equipping them to navigate the complexities of local governance effectively.