Promising reforms: Yousafzai says govt ready to hold local body elections

The ministers says development funds to be given to local govt representatives and not to MPAs.


Our Correspondent July 19, 2013
Distancing ourselves from America’s war is the only solution for us against terrorism, says Yousufzai. PHOTO: FILE

ABBOTABAD:


Health and Information Minister Shaukat Yousafzai said on Friday the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led provincial government did not want a conflict with the judiciary and was ready to hold local government elections.


Following a visit to King Abdullah Teaching Hospital Mansehra, Yousafzai held a briefing with journalists and said as per the higher judiciary’s orders the K-P government would ensure a corruption free and transparent system of governance in the province.

The minister added development funds would not be given to MPAs rather the funds would be spent through local government representatives after making necessary amendments in the Constitution.

“Village councils will be strengthened for this purpose and administrative and financial powers will be given to them,” Yousafzai said.

The health minister admitted the condition of public health facilities is poor indicating no improvement had occurred in the system during the last 65 years. However, he promised his government would ensure tangible results to bring positive changes in healthcare.

“Corruption has caused great harm to government departments in the past but our government will bring efficient reforms within the shortest possible time,” he maintained.

Taking a jab at the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz government at the centre, Yousafzai said, “Distancing ourselves from America’s war is the only solution for us against terrorism. The federal government cannot feel the effects of deteriorating law and order like K-P can. It will only swing into action if Punjab is affected.”

Published in The Express Tribune, July 20th, 2013.

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