on Smaller Administrative Units in Pakistan
In a recent campaign led by the Voice of Karachi organization, the pressing need for creating smaller administrative units in Pakistan has taken center stage. Dr. Nadeem Nusrat, the organization’s founder, delivered a heartfelt and motivating speech after the successful #AdminUnitsToSavePak campaign. His words struck a chord with many, emphasizing the urgency of reforming Pakistan’s governance structure to address the root causes of widespread issues.
A United Effort: An Apolitical Campaign for Change
The campaign to establish more administrative units was not about votes or money; it was purely a call for better governance. Dr. Nadeem Nusrat began his speech by congratulating everyone who participated—whether part of the Voice of Karachi team or not. He made it clear that this is not a political agenda but rather a step toward alleviating the daily struggles faced by the Pakistani people.
“Pakistan’s problems are too severe to be solved by the current administrative structure,” Dr. Nusrat stated. He highlighted that Pakistan’s governance system is outdated and ineffective in addressing public grievances, unlike other countries that have made significant progress through decentralized governance.
A Look Back: Pakistan’s Missed Opportunities
Dr. Nusrat drew comparisons with countries like China, Germany, and Japan—nations that rose from devastation post-World War II or achieved rapid growth soon after their founding. Meanwhile, Pakistan, despite its potential, lags far behind. According to Dr. Nusrat, the existing system has been dominated by the same families and individuals since the 1970s, leading to corruption, unemployment, and lawlessness.
“If these individuals had provided a better governance model, Pakistan would not be facing economic ruin, low passport value, or failing education systems,” he remarked.
A Call to Action: Bring Governance to the People
One of Dr. Nusrat’s key points was that the current centralized system has failed to deliver even necessities like clean water, electricity, and healthcare. He shared a personal anecdote about how, in developed countries, taxes directly benefit the citizens. For instance, when an emergency occurs, paramedics arrive promptly, funded by taxpayer money. In contrast, in Karachi, charitable organizations like the Edhi Foundation fill the void of government services.
“Where does your tax money go? Not to Sindh or federal governance,” Dr. Nusrat exclaimed, lamenting the absence of public services despite significant tax collection.
The Urgency of Smaller Administrative Units
Dr. Nusrat emphasized the urgent need for decentralization, stating that Pakistan’s governance must be handed over to educated, capable individuals who can prevent funds from being misused and channel them toward the public good. He cited examples of nations like Rwanda and Chechnya that have overcome significant challenges and emerged stronger by embracing decentralized governance.
“Karachi, once known as Uroos-ul-Bilad, now stands ruined due to the greed and bias of a few,” he said. Dr. Nusrat believes that a solution lies in establishing smaller administrative units, bringing accountability closer to the people.
Environmental and Economic Concerns: A Shared Responsibility
Dr. Nusrat addressed broader challenges like climate change, which could lead to catastrophic consequences if corruption continues to plague the system. He urged citizens to unite, transcend political differences, and focus on Pakistan’s betterment.
“We need to create an environment conducive to the return of our youth, providing them with employment opportunities and a livable society,” he concluded.
Dr. Nusrat’s powerful speech is not just a call for administrative reform; it’s a plea for unity and action. The Voice of Karachi urges every Pakistani to recognize that real change will only come when we all work together.