PM orders public release of Islamabad Governance reform report

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Planning Commission to publicly release a comprehensive governance reform report on Islamabad, marking a major step

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Planning Commission to publicly release a comprehensive governance reform report on Islamabad, marking a major step toward transparency and public consultation over proposed structural changes in the federal capital.

The decision comes after a high-level committee, led by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, submitted a detailed 138-page report outlining a potential overhaul of the Islamabad Capital Territory’s administrative framework. The proposed reforms could significantly reshape how the capital is governed, introducing a more empowered, locally elected system.

According to official sources, the Prime Minister stressed that such far-reaching reforms must be shared with the public before any final decision is made. He emphasized transparency, inclusivity, and broad-based consultation, given the potential impact on governance in the national capital.

Under the proposed model, the report suggests the creation of an elected Islamabad Capital Territory Government (ICTG), headed either by a chief minister or mayor, supported by a 27-member legislative assembly. This assembly would include 21 directly elected members, five reserved seats for women, and one seat for minorities.

The proposed body would be responsible for most administrative functions of the capital, while key areas such as security and master planning would remain under federal control due to Islamabad’s status as the national seat of government.

Officials said the reform package also includes recommendations to restructure local governance institutions, including a major revision of the Capital Development Authority (Capital Development Authority), transferring several of its operational powers to the new elected setup.

The report further proposes a new legal framework titled the “Islamabad Capital Territory Government Act 2025,” aimed at defining powers, responsibilities, and institutional boundaries in line with democratic principles and international governance standards.

The committee behind the report was formed by the Prime Minister to evaluate existing administrative challenges and propose a modern governance model aligned with constitutional values and global best practices. Its recommendations are now expected to undergo a wide-ranging public consultation process.

The Planning Commission will release the report to political parties, legal experts, urban planners, civil society organisations, academics, and residents of Islamabad, allowing stakeholders to submit feedback and suggestions.

Government officials say this consultation phase could help build consensus on key reforms, including the transfer of CDA powers, restructuring of local bodies, and possible constitutional amendments required for implementation.

If adopted, the proposed changes would represent the most significant transformation in Islamabad’s governance since its establishment, potentially redefining how Pakistan’s capital city is administered for decades to come.