A monitoring system for Local Governments in Pakistan

The Local Government system was introduced in 2001, with a monitoring system as one of its essential features.
Earlier, the local institutions and offices had a system of inspections, audits, inquiries, etc., to improve efficiency and facilities. It seldom worked. Now the people’s representatives provide an effective external check through the monitoring system to improve the situation.
The monitoring by elected representatives is a friendly nudge to officials, rather than an interference or intrusion in their work. The Monitoring Committees of various Councils visit Local Government institutions and offices and identify the problems that hinder efficient and effective delivery of services. They send their reports to the respective executive authorities of the Local Governments for necessary action. To help them in their work, indicative questions have been given in the second part of this book. (They may add or delete questions, depending on the situation.)
The Monitoring Committees in Unions monitor all institutions and offices of the Tehsil/Town and the District in their areas. The Committees of the Tehsil/Town Council monitor only the Offices of the Tehsil Municipal Administration. The Committees of the District Council monitor only the Offices of the District Government.
The scope of monitoring by the Union Committees is likely to expand beyond the subjects specified in Section 88 (k) of the Local Government Ordinance, as the Union Councilors look around and see that many more things do need a look by them. Even the Federal ministries and the Provincial departments may like the Unions to monitor their offices and institutions at the local level for effective supervision and better performance. The possibility of wider monitoring has been discussed in more detail in “Epilogue.”