JI moves SHC against tweaks to local govt law

The Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) has filed a petition with the Sindh High Court (SHC) challenging recent amendments to the Sindh Local Government Act 2026 that allow outgoing mayors and chairmen to continue exercising powers and performing functions as administrators after their terms expire. The petition, brought by JI's city chief Monem Zafar, Leader of the Opposition at City Council Advocate Saifuddin, and deputy parliamentary leader Taimoor Ahmed, argues that the amendments are unconstitutional and illegal.

They claim that Article 140A of the Constitution mandates the establishment of a local government system and the devolution of political, administrative, and financial authority to elected representatives. The Sindh Local Government Act 2013, however, specifically authorizes this devolution, but the new amendments purportedly contradict these constitutional provisions.

The petitioners argue that permitting outgoing officials to remain in office beyond their term undermines fair electoral processes and creates an unfair incumbency advantage. They further argue that the amendments are inconsistent with Article 218(3) of the Constitution, which aims to ensure honest, just, and fair elections. The petitioners have requested the SHC to declare the amendments unconstitutional, restore the legal position prior to the changes, and order the suspension of the impugned provisions, ensuring that fresh local government elections are held within the stipulated period.