Meeting between Citizens and Ex-Local Govt Representatives in Chishtian

To exercise social accountability, Transparency International Pakistan in collaboration with SAIBAN organized a meeting between Ex-Local Government representatives and the citizens of Chishtian. A total of 38 participants including 9 women participated in the session. Malik Muhammad Nasir Vice Chairman Municipal Committee Chishtian, Muhammad Saddique Kharal Vice Chairman UC Fordwah, Mr. Ghafor and Mr. Umer Farooq who were the councilors represented the local government and answered the questions raised by the citizens. Regional Manager, Mr. Zakir Shaheen from South Asia Partnership gave a very interactive presentations about the new LG law 2019. Assistant Commissioner Chishtian was also invited as a chief guest. In the beginning SAIBAN president Mr. Tahir Shah discussed the efforts of civil society of Bahawalnagar in promoting democratic values and freedom of expression. Mr. Ashfaque Ahmed who represented TI Pakistan, discussed the concept of social accountability and highlighted how the organization is promoting this democratic value through out Pakistan. The participants asked questions about local problems which were answered by LG representatives. However, the citizens rejected that the lack of funds and powers of LG members are the reasons of their poor performance. Many believed that LG member’s lack of dedication and willingness were the main reason why small problems requiring minimum efforts remained unresolved. In the end, Assistant Commissioner Chishtian addressed the gathering and appreciated the work done by TI Pakistan. He said that there was such programs were not organized in Chishtian in the past, which could provide citizens to openly ask questions about the performance of the electables. He further added that there might be arguments about LG performance but despite this, the LG system is the right answer to solve basic problems of the community.

Event Images