Lahore, February 17, 2025: FAFEN’s Shah Hussain Regional Network (SHRN) organized a large-scale demand rally in Punjab, calling for the immediate elections of local governments. The rally, led by Regional Convener brought together citizens and activists who voiced their concerns over the prolonged absence of elected local governance in the province.
Participants at the rally highlighted that while local governments in the other three provinces of Pakistan are not only established but also fully functional under elected representatives, Punjab continues to lag behind. The establishment of elected local governments is a constitutional requirement under Articles 7, 32, and 140A of the Constitution of Pakistan. However, Punjab has been without elected local governments for several years. The rally put forward a series of demands, urging the Punjab government to either introduce appropriate amendments to the Local Government Act or enact a new law that ensures:
- Expansion of powers and duties for local governments.
- Increased representation proportional to the population.
- Financial autonomy for local bodies.
- Legal safeguards for direct public participation in local governance.
Participants emphasized that addressing local needs and delivering services at the grassroots level can only be effective through the practical participation of local populations. However, they stressed that such participation must be legally protected to ensure transparency and accountability.
The SHRN vowed to continue its advocacy until local government elections are held and the voices of Punjab’s citizens are heard.
