RAWALPINDI: Speakers at a seminar urged the government to hold local government elections in the province as soon as possible.

The seminar arranged by Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO) held at a local hotel brought together current and former lawmakers, political figures and civil society representatives to discuss the importance of local governance.

Member Punjab Assembly Malik Iftikhar Ahmed said grassroots democracy is the foundation upon which we can build a more inclusive and responsive political system. Local government elections play a critical role in this process, allowing citizens to voice their concerns and hold their leaders accountable.

MPA Tahira Mushtaq said, “As a representative of the people, I believe in the power of local governance to address the needs of the community. Holding local government elections is crucial to strengthening our democratic institutions and ensuring that every citizen’s voice is heard.”

Grassroots democracy is foundation upon which we can build an inclusive and responsive political system, say lawmakers

MPA Malik Mansoor Afsar stated that ensuring the regularity of local government elections was not just about upholding democratic norms but also about delivering effective governance. These elections provide a platform for citizens to engage directly with their leaders, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs met.”

Former local government officials and members of the civil society also expressed their views on the absence of local government elections in Punjab, which has led to the piling up of developmental projects in their immediate surroundings. They also stressed the need for all stakeholders to work collaboratively.

“Local government elections are the backbone of a thriving democracy. They ensure that citizens have a direct say in the decisions that affect their daily lives. We urge the provincial government to prioritise these elections to strengthen democratic processes at the grassroots level. Local development is not possible without engaging local communities for inclusive development in the province,” said Syed Kausar Abbas, SSDO Executive Director.

The speakers urged the provincial government to prioritise the conduct of local government elections. They pledged to continue their advocacy efforts and to work collaboratively towards strengthening local democratic institutions in Punjab.

The participants highlighted the importance of adhering to the constitutional mandate for regular local government elections, emphasising that these elections are fundamental to fostering grassroots empowerment and promoting community-driven development. By regularly holding local elections, citizens are given the power to make decisions that directly affect their neighborhoods, ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed effectively.

The discussion delved into the vital role of local governments in tackling specific community challenges such as access to basic services, infrastructure development and social welfare initiatives. By having elected representatives at the local level, communities can advocate for equitable resource allocation and ensure that development projects align with their unique needs.

This bottom-up approach is crucial for sustainable development and inclusive growth, where no segment of society is left behind.

Published in Dawn, September 2nd, 2024