A high-level committee has proposed a new government structure for Islamabad that would give the capital its own elected assembly, chief executive and administrative departments.
The proposed Islamabad Capital Territory Government would have a 27-member assembly. Of these, 21 members would be elected directly by voters, while five seats would be reserved for women and one for minorities.
The plan would also create 27 administrative departments to manage key areas of public services. Health, education, environmental matters and municipal services would come under the proposed territorial government.
However, some major responsibilities would remain with the federal government. These would include law and order as well as master planning for the capital.
The proposed setup would provide Islamabad’s government with administrative and financial autonomy, allowing it to manage its responsibilities with greater independence.
The framework would require approval from the federal cabinet before being presented to both houses of Parliament. If approved, the system would be introduced through an Act of Parliament.
The proposal could bring a significant change to the way Islamabad is governed by giving residents elected representation at the territorial level.
It would also create a clearer division of responsibilities between the Islamabad government and the federal authorities.
The plan remains subject to the required political and parliamentary approvals before it can become law. If implemented, it could reshape Islamabad’s administrative structure and give the capital a dedicated elected government for managing many of its local affairs.
