Barrister Saif calls for new provinces, stronger local governments

Barrister Saif calls for new provinces, stronger local governments

Former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Adviser Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif has called for the creation of new provinces and the strengthening of the local government system, describing both measures as essential for improving governance in the country.

In a statement, Saif said the government should seek the public’s opinion through a referendum before making major decisions about the administrative structure of the country. He argued that Pakistan’s existing political system has failed to effectively address public concerns and questioned the credibility of the assemblies.

Saif claimed that a small number of influential families continue to dominate the country’s political system. According to him, political groups often place their own interests ahead of public welfare, leaving ordinary citizens to face growing economic pressures.

He also criticized the government over rising fuel prices, saying the increase has added to the financial burden on the public. At the same time, he questioned the decision to spend around Rs6 billion on bulletproof vehicles, calling it an example of misplaced priorities.

The former adviser maintained that Pakistan needs meaningful political and administrative reforms to improve governance and ensure that public resources serve the interests of citizens. He stressed that stronger local governments could help address problems at the grassroots level and give people a greater role in decision-making.

Saif’s remarks come amid continued debate over administrative reforms, the effectiveness of local governments and the need to make political institutions more responsive to public needs.