THREE healthcare institutions in Karachi, devolved to the provincial government under the 18th amendment, have been reverted to the federation under the Supreme Court orders.

The decision was made in view of mismanagement, corruption and politicisation of these institutions under the Sindh government control.

The Supreme Court chief justice is requested, in the same spirit, to annul the 18th amendment, and restore Article 58 (2)(b) to strengthen the federation and institute checks and balances on the powers of the executive. The 18th amendment has been a failed experiment as it has burdened the provinces with additional functions without their capacity building.

This has led to deterioration in delivery of services and increased corruption.

The reintroduction of 58(2)(b) will provide a check on bad governance, improve the democratic process, avoid misuse of authority and offer a constitutional path towards resolution of political impasse. It will bury the military rule forever.

Arshad M. Khwaja

Karachi

Published in Dawn, July 28th, 2016