THE 18th amendment is a big triumph on the path to having a decentralised democratic government in Pakistan. It gives the provinces primacy over their resources, which are being expropriated by the federal dispensation. The corrupt elements accepted the 18th amendment.

The amendment leaves little space for the state to squander public money, and would allow the provinces to manage their affairs instead of being dictated to by the Centre.

The amendment would also open a window for the provincial legislation of the local government. It makes it possible to come up with a framework that devolves power to all levels so that individuals of every stripe can have a say in matters and policies affecting them.

Sanaullah Mirani
Daharki, Sindh

Published in Dawn, June 29th, 2020