Of-late, the present local government system has become target of censure since conception of the idea and its enforcement by the National Reconstruction Bureau [NRB].

Age-old, previous system was entirely put an end and a new one introduced with a view to empowering the people at the grassroots level.

The concept was not awful but some of its elements needed review – which unfortunately could not be done – prima facie due to vested interests.

By-and-large, there are genuine complaint that in the new system – the District Nazim enjoys lopsided powers – besides utter confusion vis-à-vis duties, responsibilities and functions.

However, it is a fact that the local government system has contributed a lot in taking fruits of progress and development – at the doorstep of the masses.

The LG system has made it possible to prioritize requirements of the local area as per demands and aspirations of the people, as they have effectively been involved in the formulation of the developmental schemes.

Though there was opposition from the members of the provincial assemblies and parliament to the system right from the beginning as they were of the view that the development schemes should be sponsored by them and not by councilors and Nazims.

But their resistance remained subdued during previous Government. Yet, now with the change of the Government – the opposition to the system has intensified and most of the coalition partners want change of the system – which they consider represents the previous regime.

While manifesting and supporting the vision of such sets of society – especially the egalitarians – we feel optimistic that the LG system should be allowed to live-on for still more time – of-course with necessary improvements such as; assigning them role of local dispute resolution – like Punchayat or Jirgas.

Hence, the existing institutions ought not be put to an end – merely on political considerations.

As a matter of fact – at this stage of the national history – we can not afford experiment after experiment and it is time to strengthen all institutions for the good of the country.

Systems can be changed – if so required. Yet, it wouldn’t be fair to obstruct the one – as long as it works in a smooth silky style – to benefit the poor people – atop.

Yes, improvements must be brought in to make it more affective, useful, beneficial and meaningful – if, as and when – such a course is deemed as requisite – by the nation. ●