ISLAMABAD: In what could become the most transformative administrative overhaul in Pakistan’s federal capital’s history, a comprehensive reform report has proposed an elected government for Islamabad, complete with a 27-member assembly, financial and administrative autonomy, and a digital governance framework, potentially ending decades of direct federal control over the city.
The 138-page report, submitted to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, recommends a fundamental shift from the current system where the federal government directly administers the capital through a chief commissioner and additional chief secretary. The final approval will rest with the federal cabinet.
Main features of the proposed reform plan
1. Elected Regional Government & 27-Member Assembly
The report proposes establishing an elected regional government for the Islamabad Capital Territory, featuring a 27-member assembly that would elect its own head, to be titled either Chief Minister or Mayor. This would mark the first time Islamabad’s residents elect their own local leadership.
2. Islamabad Capital Territory Government Act
A new law, the Islamabad Capital Territory Government Act, will be presented before parliament for approval. Legal experts are being consulted to determine whether the system requires a constitutional amendment or can be introduced through simple legislation.
3. Financial and Administrative Autonomy
Under the proposed model, all powers except law and order and the master plan would be transferred to the local government. A special transition committee will be formed to manage:
- Local tax collection
- Distribution of financial resources
- Transfer of administrative powers
4. Six New Institutions
The report recommends creating six dedicated institutions for key sectors to support the new governance model:
- Health
- Education
- Tourism
- E-governance
- Other public service sectors
5. Single Digital Platform
A unified digital platform will be established for:
- Land records
- Tax filing and collection
- Licensing
- Complaints redressal
This aligns with the broader Digital Pakistan policy and aims to eliminate bureaucratic red tape.
6. Five-Year Phased Implementation
The reform agenda is designed as a five-year phased plan, with goals including:
- Increasing tourism and investment in the capital
- Modernizing administrative systems
- Making public services more transparent, efficient, and technology-driven
7. Alignment with National Policies
The proposed reforms will be aligned with the ‘Uraan Pakistan’ and Digital Pakistan policies, positioning Islamabad as a modern, investment-friendly, and digitally connected capital.
Next Steps
The reform plan now requires federal cabinet approval. Once granted, the legal and parliamentary process for the Islamabad Capital Territory Government Act will move forward. The final structure of the proposed elected government will depend on legal advice and federal-level decisions.
Historical Significance
If approved, the new governance model would mark one of the most significant administrative changes in Islamabad’s history, transforming the capital from a federally administered territory into a region with its own elected leadership, financial powers, and digital governance infrastructure.
