The Punjab government has announced that local elections will be held in the province in September this year, accompanied by major reforms under the proposed Punjab Local Government Act 2025.
One of the key provisions includes the introduction of minimum educational qualifications for candidates contesting various positions. A Bachelor’s degree will be required for the role of Chairman, an Intermediate (FA) qualification for Vice Chairmen, and a Matriculation certificate for Councilors.
The proposed legislation aims to restructure the local governance framework by abolishing district councils and expanding the role of the provincial bureaucracy. Under the new system, the authority of elected local representatives will be limited to the Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA).
The Punjab Local Government Act 2025 is intended to strengthen and reconstitute local governments as the third tier of governance.
It seeks to consolidate existing laws and clearly define the powers and functions of local institutions, with the broader goal of promoting effective devolution of political, administrative, and financial authority.
