Rawalakot (Tahir Rehman) – Elected local representatives from Poonch Division staged a protest rally in Rawalakot against the government’s failure to grant them authority. The rally culminated in a protest gathering at Sabir Shaheed Stadium, where participants chanted slogans against the government and in support of their demands.
The protesters carried placards inscribed with slogans demanding empowerment of local bodies. Addressing the gathering, speakers expressed their frustration, stating that the government is not serious about empowering local institutions, while local representatives across the region are protesting with no response from the authorities.
They announced that on February 15, they will participate in a convention in Muzaffarabad, where they will outline their next course of action.
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Dispute Over Funds and Authority
The representatives claimed that the Rs. 3.7 billion fund belongs to local bodies, and it is the job of assembly members to legislate, not to spend development funds.
They further stated that the government initially asked them to draft an amendment act, which they did after reviewing local governance models from other provinces. However, the government is now attempting to pass its own version of the act in the assembly, which exposes its lack of genuine intent.
Sardar Javed Sharif (Chairman District Council & Focal Person for AJK Local Representatives), along with other elected representatives from Poonch Division, spoke at the protest. They emphasized that the government had held prolonged negotiations with them and assured them that their drafted amendment bill would be presented in the assembly. Instead, the government is now seeking to pass a bill that suits its own agenda rather than delegating real authority to local representatives.
Upcoming Decision – Final Phase of the Movement
The speakers announced that a major convention will be held in Muzaffarabad on February 15, where critical decisions will be made regarding their movement.
“This time, we are launching a decisive movement. All local representatives are ready to fight for their rights, and we will not back down until our demands are met.”
They urged the government to take the matter seriously and resolve the issues of local representatives, ensuring true devolution of power to the grassroots level. Until their demands are accepted, the movement will continue.
