KARACHI, July 6 (Alliance News): Former prime minister and Awaam Pakistan Party Chairman Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has called for comprehensive governance reforms, including the creation of smaller administrative units and a stronger local government system, warning that Pakistan’s current governance model has failed to meet public needs.
In an exclusive interview, Abbasi said the country’s existing administrative structure was no longer effective and stressed the need to uphold the rule of law, respect the public mandate, and ensure transparent elections.
“The current system is not working. We need reforms, the rule of law, respect for the people’s mandate, and an end to election rigging. Until then, the public will not accept the system,” he said.
Expressing concern over the political situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Abbasi alleged that the electoral environment was deeply flawed, claiming genuine political representatives were unable to participate freely.
“A government formed through an election in which real public representatives cannot contest will not gain public acceptance and will ultimately damage the Kashmir cause,” he added.
Turning to Karachi, the former premier said the city’s deteriorating condition was the result of poor governance and the unequal distribution of resources.
“Karachi, which should have been Pakistan’s finest city, is now counted among the world’s worst,” he said.
Abbasi criticized the city’s water supply system, questioning why residents continue to rely on water tankers despite the availability of pipeline infrastructure. He also alleged that influential groups control water hydrants, contributing to widespread shortages.
“There is an elite capture of the system. A city without reliable water, electricity, infrastructure, or effective policing cannot deliver a decent quality of life. Instead of trying to make Karachi ‘Paris,’ let it remain Karachi and provide its citizens with basic services,” he remarked.
He also criticized successive governments for failing to empower local governments, arguing that meaningful devolution of authority over schools, hospitals, roads, and municipal services is essential for improving governance.
Abbasi said the growing demand for new provinces reflected the need for smaller administrative units capable of delivering better public services.
“We need to think as Pakistanis and decide what is in the best interest of the country and its people,” he said.
