Key Takeaways
- Islamabad may receive provincial-style governance with its own assembly.
- The proposed framework includes a 27-member assembly with 21 directly elected members.
- Islamabad would have its own chief executive and administrative control over 27 departments.
Islamabad could soon operate under a provincial governance model, according to a proposed framework that has been submitted to the prime minister. The plan aims to grant the capital greater administrative and financial autonomy, similar to that of a province.
The draft framework suggests the creation of an Islamabad Assembly, consisting of 27 members, including 21 directly elected representatives. Each of the capital's National Assembly constituencies would have seven seats, with five reserved for women and one for minorities.
Under the proposed system, Islamabad would have its own chief executive, who could be designated as either a chief minister or a mayor. The executive would oversee the work of a chief secretary and four secretaries, each responsible for different groups of departments.
The proposed government would control 27 administrative departments, including health, education, environmental protection, and civic services. However, law and order and master planning would remain under federal control through a federal ministry or governor.
The Islamabad Assembly would have administrative and financial powers similar to a provincial legislature. The Election Commission of Pakistan would conduct the elections, ensuring a transparent and fair process.
The proposal also calls for the transfer of the powers and functions of the Capital Development Authority and other bodies operating under local government law to the Islamabad government. This move aims to streamline governance and enhance the capital's administrative efficiency.
Federal institutions with nationwide responsibilities would continue to operate in the capital under the proposed framework. This ensures that essential services and functions remain under federal control while allowing Islamabad to manage its local affairs more effectively.
The special committee that submitted the proposal to the prime minister is part of ongoing debates over the creation of new provinces and administrative units. The framework is seen as a potential solution to address the unique needs and challenges of the federal capital.
