Aqeel Malik urges performance-based politics ahead of Gilgit-Baltistan polls

ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Law Barrister Aqeel Malik on Saturday called on political parties to uphold the dignity of democratic discourse, adopt a constructive political approach, and focus on delivering tangible results rather than relying on rhetoric and unrealistic promises.

Speaking in an interview with a local television channel, Aqeel Malik described the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan elections as an important test of democratic maturity and political responsibility, expressing confidence that voters would make their decision based on performance and governance.

“The people are closely observing the development and governance initiatives undertaken in Punjab under the leadership of the chief minister,” he said. “I am confident that voters in Gilgit-Baltistan will exercise their democratic right on June 7 by evaluating the performance of political parties.”

The minister expressed optimism that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) would secure strong public support in the elections, attributing the party’s prospects to its governance record and development agenda.

He noted that public expectations had evolved beyond political slogans and were now focused on improved service delivery, effective governance, and visible development outcomes.

“Democratic competition should be rooted in accountability, public service, and performance,” Aqeel Malik said. “Political stakeholders must prioritise solving people’s problems through practical measures rather than relying solely on promises.”

Calls for Review of 18th Amendment Implementation

Responding to a question regarding constitutional reforms, the minister observed that the objectives of the 18th Constitutional Amendment had not been fully realised, particularly in terms of transferring authority and resources to the grassroots level.

He maintained that shortcomings in implementation had limited the benefits intended for citizens and affected the quality of public services.

“The public has not received the level of relief that was envisioned under the devolution framework,” he said, adding that there was a need to strengthen mechanisms for effective governance at the local level.

Emphasises Accountability in Resource Utilisation

Discussing the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, Aqeel Malik acknowledged that provinces were receiving their allocated shares of federal resources but stressed the importance of evaluating how effectively those funds were being utilised.

He called for greater transparency, accountability, and monitoring to ensure that public resources translate into meaningful development projects and improved living standards for citizens.

Smart City Vision for Islamabad

Addressing a question on governance reforms in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), the minister said that any significant reform initiative would require consultation and consensus among coalition partners and relevant stakeholders.

He noted that discussions on the matter were ongoing and remained under consideration.

Highlighting the government’s vision for the federal capital, Aqeel Malik said the proposed Smart City initiative aims to transform Islamabad into a “nature capital” by promoting environmental sustainability, eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and creative industries.

The vision, he said, also seeks to foster an inclusive and open capital city that encourages public participation, innovation, and greater international engagement while preserving Islamabad’s natural beauty and ecological character.