PESHAWAR: The recent decision by the Peshawar High Court regarding local government issues in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and amendments to the Local Government Act is a triumph for justice.
Local government representatives challenged the amendments made by the provincial government in 2022 with the support of the Local Councils Association of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The President of the Local Councils Association, Mayor Mardan, praised the court’s ruling and credited the success of this long-running case to the dedicated efforts of local government members, legal advisor Babar Khan Advocate, and other lawyers who persevered.
Azizullah Khan Marwat, Tehsil Chairman of the Local Councils Association from Sarai Naurang Lakki Marwat, discussed the court’s decision and the challenges facing local governments. He emphasized that the Local Councils Association of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has consistently worked towards establishing a robust and stable local government system. The Association is committed to the devolution of powers to lower levels of government, stating that a strong local government system can effectively address public problems.
Intezaar Khalil, the Coordinator of the Local Councils Association Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, announced that an All Parties Conference is scheduled to take place in Peshawar on September 30. Khalil believes that this conference will yield positive results. Following the direction of Mayor Mardan, the President of the Local Councils Association, a committee led by the Mayor of Peshawar has been formed. This committee includes various Tehsil Chairmen and members, who have begun discussions with provincial leaders of political parties and are extending regular invitations. Many parties have already assured their cooperation and confirmed their participation.
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Khalil also stated that the amendments implemented by the provincial government have hindered the local government system. Following the Peshawar High Court’s ruling, he called for the provincial government to promptly restore all powers to local government representatives and provide development funds for both the previous and current financial years. This would enable local governments to effectively address public issues right at their doorsteps.
