The proposal of smaller provinces has been aired many times to improve governance and promote genuine democracy through wider participation of people. In effect, such a course would strengthen democratic traditions and alleviate the sense of deprivation among the population. However, the creation of more provinces is unlikely to materialise as it does not suit the ruling elite. As such, the country will continue to experience what at best is a half-baked democracy.

Asad Kirmani

Karachi