Non-functional Ucs

That local governments act as the backbone of democratic governance needs not be overemphasised. This tier of the government, existing closest to the public, is best placed to address fundamental issues at the suppliant's doorstep; focus on civic infrastructure and redress the day-to-day malfunction; ensure access to essential services like health, education, sanitation, garbage disposal, etc; and operate registration system for residents. An operational and empowered local bodies system can serve as the most vocal voice of the electorate, reducing problems of the public and fostering, thereby, their trust in democratic institutions.

Unfortunately though, this otherwise indispensible link in the chain of democratic dispensation is the most neglected and disregarded – treated only in a ceremonial manner. Since being instituted in year 2000 under the military government of Pervez Musharraf, the local government system has not been taken seriously – by none other than those elected to the provincial and national assemblies – deliberately kept non-functional for much of the time, on one pretext or the other.

While the plight has been the same across the country, the situation in Balochistan is much worse. A recent gathering at the Quetta Press Club has been told that more than 27 per cent of UCs in this neglected province of the country remain non-functional for want of funds, while elections to the Quetta Metropolitan Corporation have not been held yet, rendering it under administrative control. The yet elusive goal of winning the hearts of the estranged people of Balochistan can start off from focusing on the resolution of their most fundamental problems, if not bigger ones having political and strategic dimensions. The relevant quarters must make sure the funds required to bring the non-functional UCs to life are released without delay.