New Administrative Blueprint for Islamabad’s Future Presented to Prime Minister
ISLAMABAD – A comprehensive draft outlining the future administrative structure of the federal capital has been submitted to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, proposing the establishment of a 27-member assembly for Islamabad.
According to sources, the draft was prepared by a high-level committee led by Ahsan Iqbal and includes federal ministers Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Musadik Malik, Rana Sanaullah, Talal Chaudhry, along with both members of the National Assembly from Islamabad and the Interior Secretary.
Proposed Structure
The draft proposes a distinct governance framework for the capital, featuring a dedicated assembly, a Chief Executive, and 27 administrative departments. It is suggested that 21 of the 27 assembly members be directly elected by the public, with each National Assembly constituency in Islamabad allocated 7 seats in the proposed local assembly.
Reserved Seats and Executive Role
The framework also suggests reserving 5 seats for women and 1 for minorities. The Chief Executive—proposed to be designated as Chief Minister or Mayor—would be accountable to the elected assembly.
Scope of Responsibilities
Under the proposal, subjects including health, education, environment, and civic amenities would fall under the purview of the local government. Law and order and master planning matters, however, would remain under federal control, managed through the relevant ministry or the Governor.
Constitutional Path
Authorities indicate that instead of a constitutional amendment, the new structure would be established through an Act of Parliament. Approval from the federal cabinet would precede legislation in the Senate and the National Assembly. The membership of the proposed assembly would be subject to Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution, with elections conducted by the Election Commission of Pakistan.
If finalized, this plan could grant Islamabad a provincial-style administrative and financial autonomy, reshaping the governance of the federal capital.
