LG polls to begin from mid-May

Minister briefs governor about legislation preparations

LAHORE:

The first phase of local government elections will start in Punjab on May 15. Preparations are underway to conduct local government elections transparently. Punjab Minister for Local Government Mian Mahmoodur Rasheed made this announcement during a meeting with Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar on Tuesday.

Speaking on the occasion, he said the government will ensure transparency in local government elections and pursue the policy of devolution of powers as per the vision of Prime Minister Imran Khan. It will help in resolving public problems at their doorstep.

Rasheed also briefed the governor about legislation and ongoing preparations for local government elections in the province. Both leaders also discussed governmental affairs and matters of mutual interest.

They voiced hope that the decision of the people will also come in favour of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and opponents will not get anything but disappointment once again. Speaking on the occasion, Sarwar said the new local government system will help in resolving public issues and will also help in intensifying the government initiatives for providing basic facilities to the people.

“Punjab's local government system will be an example for other provinces as it will transfer power to lower levels for the first time,” he said.

“The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan, wants to take Pakistan ahead but the opposition wants to take it backwards. Unity and solidarity are needed to tackle challenges facing Pakistan, for which all sections of society, including political and religious parties, have to make decisions that go beyond political interests and go in the best interests of the nation,” Sarwar said.

He said the government was using all its resources to tackle challenges being faced by the country