Intergovernmental relations in Pakistan: managing the federation-Sindh contestation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Drawing on the comparative literature on intergovernmental relations this article analyses the dynamics of executive federalism in Pakistan with a focus on relations between the federation and Sindh province. Pakistan presents an interesting case for the study of intergovernmental relations in a contested federation. This article highlights the intricate workings of intergovernmental relations in a centralised federal system by assessing the executive bargaining over two key issue areas: water-sharing and management of the Covid-19 pandemic. I argue that the broader pattern of centre-province relations in Pakistan remains unchanged despite more than a decade of implementation of the 18th Amendment. My argument identifies the critical role of partisan politics in the management of intergovernmental relations. The populist government in Islamabad led by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf (2018–2022) and the polarisation prevalent in the party system impacted intergovernmental relations. Agreement between federal and Sindh governments became difficult. The role of mediatory institutions, especially the Council of Common Interests in managing executive ties is assessed.