An editorial in Dawn argues that simply creating new provinces in Pakistan will not address the country’s fundamental governance problems. The piece contends that genuine improvement requires empowering local governments with real authority and significantly devolving financial resources. Without strengthening local bodies, new administrative divisions risk replicating existing issues of inefficiency and a lack of accountability. The editorial criticizes the current debate focusing solely on provincial restructuring, dismissing it as a superficial solution. It stresses that power and funds must be transferred downwards to the grassroots level, enabling local representatives to directly address citizen needs. Effective governance hinges on genuine decentralization and responsive local leadership, not merely redrawing provincial boundaries. Ultimately, lasting change demands a commitment to empowering local governments and ensuring they have the resources to function effectively.