Islamabad could receive provincial-style governance under a proposed framework submitted to the prime minister. The proposal seeks greater administrative and financial autonomy for the federal capital.
A high-level special committee has prepared the proposed governance framework. The recommendations come as discussions continue over the creation of new provinces and administrative units across the country.
The draft proposes the creation of a 27-member Islamabad Assembly. Of these, 21 members would be directly elected by voters. Five additional seats would be reserved for women, while one seat would be reserved for minorities.
Each of Islamabad’s National Assembly constituencies would have seven assembly seats under the proposed system. The Election Commission of Pakistan would be responsible for conducting elections for the new assembly.
The framework also proposes giving Islamabad its own chief executive. The position could be titled either chief minister or mayor. This official would oversee the administration of the federal capital under the proposed governance structure.
A chief secretary and four secretaries would also be appointed to manage the administration. The four secretaries would oversee different groups of government departments.
Under the proposed arrangement, the Islamabad government would control 27 administrative departments. These would include important areas such as health, education, environmental protection and civic services.
However, some major functions would remain under federal control. Law and order and master planning would continue to be handled by the federal government through a federal ministry or governor.
The proposed Islamabad Assembly would receive administrative and financial powers similar to those exercised by provincial legislatures. This would give the capital greater authority over its internal affairs and public services.
The framework also recommends transferring the powers and functions of the Capital Development Authority to the proposed Islamabad government. Other bodies operating under local government laws could also come under the new administration.
The proposed changes could significantly alter the way Islamabad is governed. At present, several important administrative and development functions are handled through federal institutions and authorities.
The committee’s recommendations aim to establish a clearer local governance structure for the capital. Supporters of greater autonomy could view the proposal as a way to improve decision-making and service delivery.
At the same time, federal institutions with nationwide responsibilities would continue operating in Islamabad. Their presence would not be affected by the proposed governance arrangement.
The proposal is currently a framework for consideration and does not automatically create a new provincial government in Islamabad. Further decisions would be required before any constitutional, legal or administrative changes are implemented.
The recommendations are expected to remain part of the broader debate over governance reforms and the creation of new administrative units in Pakistan.
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