LAHORE: The Punjab Assembly Standing Committee on Local Government & Community Development is deliberating on making deputy commissioners co-chairpersons of local government bodies within their respective districts.

A meeting of the panel held on Wednesday, chaired by MPA Ashraf Rasool, proposed the appointment of DCs as co-chairpersons of local government bodies during discussions on the much-anticipated Punjab LocalGovernment Bill 2025.

The proponents argue that the move would centralise coordination and ensure that district leaders play a more active role in local governance.

The proposal came after criticism of an earlier suggestion in the bill that sought DCs to be made chairpersons of local bodies. The suggestion drew criticism from various segments, including members of the ruling PML-N, who favoured supremacy of elected representatives.

In a bid to empower younger voices in politics, the committee also agreed to set the age limit for youth members at thirtyfive years. The change is expected to bring a new generation of leaders into the fold, reflecting a broader push for youth inclusion in the decision-making process.

Among other major reforms being con-sidered are delegation of more powers to union councils, the creation of joint authorities, and the formation of a District Municipal Coordination Forum.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader in Punjab Assembly Malik Ahmed Khan Bhachar has refused to chair the meetings of the Public Account s Committee-I to protest speaker`s earlier decision.

Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan had barred 26 PTI lawmakers for 15 assembly sittings for `disorderly conduct` in the house during the budget session, particularly during the speeches of Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

There are three public accounts committees in the Punjab Assembly and one of them is headed by the opposition leader.