MQMM

MQM’s Mustafa Kamal Advocates Federal Control of Karachi, Criticizes 18th Amendment

Karachi, Pakistan – Mustafa Kamal, a prominent leader of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), has called for the federal government to assume direct control over Karachi, citing what he describes as the provincial government’s failure to manage the city effectively. Kamal also voiced strong criticism of the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, arguing that it has led to a weakening of central authority and exacerbated governance challenges.

Speaking at a press conference, Kamal expressed deep concern over the current state of affairs in Pakistan’s largest city. He asserted that Karachi, a vital economic hub, is not receiving the necessary attention and resources for its development and proper administration under the existing provincial framework. He suggested that a more centralized approach, with the federal government taking the reins, would be more beneficial for the city’s progress.

The MQM-P leader’s remarks also targeted the 18th Amendment, a landmark piece of legislation that significantly devolved powers to the provinces. Kamal contended that while the amendment aimed to empower provinces, its implementation has inadvertently led to a fragmentation of authority and a decline in the federal government’s capacity to address national issues, particularly those concerning major urban centers like Karachi. He believes this has created a governance vacuum that hinders effective policymaking and resource allocation.

Kamal’s statements reflect a recurring debate within Pakistani politics regarding the balance of power between the federal government and the provinces, especially in the context of managing large metropolitan areas. His call for federal intervention in Karachi’s governance and his critique of the 18th Amendment are likely to spark further discussion and potentially political maneuvering as different parties weigh in on the complex issues of national and provincial autonomy.

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