Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warns that grassroots empowerment is key to national stability
Lahore, Pakistan | Web Desk: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has stressed that Pakistan’s survival depends on a fully empowered local government system, warning that the country has never effectively implemented the framework promised under the 18th Amendment.
Speaking at Think Fest in Lahore, Asif criticized the incomplete devolution of power, stating that provincial governments failed to transfer authority to the grassroots. “We have never allowed the common man to feel that he is part of this country,” he said, calling the 18th Amendment’s devolution a “fraud” as powers stopped at the provincial level.
He highlighted lessons from history, noting that three major military dictators maintained longer rule by strengthening local governments, while politicians have never enjoyed such extended tenures. Asif asserted that empowering local governments poses no threat to political parties but reduces bureaucratic dominance.
The Defence Minister further emphasized the need for financial powers at the tehsil level, claiming that Pakistan cannot function efficiently until authority reaches the lowest tier. “I myself have never felt that I am part of this system,” he concluded, urging comprehensive local government reforms as essential for national survival.
