On November 26, 2025, WISE, in collaboration with the Sangat Development Foundation and the Pakistan Study Center at the University of the Punjab, organized a Round Table Discussion on “Local Government in Punjab: Key Issues and Constitutional Protection.” The event brought together leading experts and practitioners, including Zahid Islam (Executive Director, Sangat Development Foundation); Mubeen Din Qazi (Constitutional Lawyer); Salman Abid (Media & Local Government Expert, Executive Director IDEA); Rana Ijaz (Chairperson, Political Science Department, University of the Punjab); and Prof. Amjad Khan Magsi (HOD, Pakistan Study Center, PU), alongside representatives from academia and civil society.

The discussion provided a comprehensive review of the Punjab Local Government Act (PLGA) 2025 and the Punjab Assembly’s resolution seeking constitutional protection for local governments. Speakers highlighted key gaps in the existing framework, stressed the need for effective devolution, and emphasized the importance of strengthening local governance systems to enhance representation, accountability, and citizen participation—particularly for women.