The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), led by Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal, is advocating for a significant administrative overhaul in Sindh. The party’s aim is to establish administrative units with their own assemblies and chief executives, ensuring direct transfer of National Finance Commission (NFC) funds, while maintaining the current boundaries of the province.
During a press conference at the party’s temporary headquarters in Bahadurabad, Karachi, Kamal emphasized the necessity for these changes, attributing the division of the country into “four independent states” to the 18th Amendment. His comments highlight the party’s vision for uniting Pakistan through the creation of new administrative units.
Internal Dynamics and Leadership Challenges
The absence of MQM-P chairman Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and senior leader Dr. Farooq Sattar at Kamal’s press briefing suggests ongoing internal disagreements over leadership within the party. Later, Dr. Sattar held a separate press conference, announcing a rally to support the creation of six administrative units in Sindh, further indicating the party’s internal dynamics.
Dr. Sattar’s announcement aligns with the party’s long-standing demand for new administrative structures in Sindh, which he claims will soon materialize. His remarks imply a reference to Sindh’s existing six divisions: Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Mirpurkhas, and Shaheed Benazirabad.
Criticism of the PPP and Commitment to National Security
Mustafa Kamal criticized the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), accusing it of poor governance and attempting to exploit ethnic tensions for political gain. He argued that the PPP’s era of influence is waning as the public grows increasingly critical of its governance.
Kamal also condemned recent attacks on Saudi Arabia, affirming MQM-P’s unwavering support for the protection of Makkah and Madina. He emphasized the party’s readiness to back any state decisions regarding defense agreements with Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
Public Rally and Call for Reforms
In a bid to garner public support, Dr. Farooq Sattar announced a rally from Ayesha Manzil to Mazar-i-Quaid, advocating for the establishment of new administrative units and provinces. He highlighted the lack of an empowered local government system and essential services like education, health, and employment over the past 18 years.
Dr. Sattar urged citizens from all ethnic and linguistic backgrounds, especially the youth, to participate in the rally and contribute to the movement against the current political status quo.
