THE ongoing debate regarding the political system in the country has largely focused on two options; creating more provinces or empowering local governments. There is a third option which may actually be the most appropriate form of governance in the country; the presidential system, supported by a centralised federal cabinet comprising qualified technocrats.
The new central government would be responsible for overseeing and running the affairs of about 30 newly-created administrative units. Each of these units would, in turn, have its own elected public representatives who would be fully empowered to manage and administer their respective areas and, indeed, to address the relevant developmental needs.
Such a state structure would surely and effectively devolve political and administrative authority to the lowest practicallevel, and would enable decisions concerning development and public services to be made closer to the people they are intended to serve. If implemented honestly, transparently and with genuine commitment, such a system could bring about a fundamental transformation in governance. It would substantially reduce the enormous costs and administrative expenditure associated with the existing system, and would also signiñcantly curtailbureaucratic red-tape, delays and unnecessary layers of decision-mal(ing.
Most importantly, it would establish a system of governance in which responsibility, accountability and power, are brought closer to the people, thereby mal(ing the administrative machinery more ef ficient, responsive and development-oriented.
Mohammad Shahid Murtaza Karachi