The Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) has urged the federal government to introduce the 28th Amendment, aiming to devolve powers to local bodies and strengthen grassroots governance, describing it as essential for national security, democratic participation, and effective management of cities like Karachi.
Key Points from MQM-P Press Conference
- Convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui emphasized Pakistan’s current feudal-style democracy limits citizen participation and accountability. He highlighted Iran’s successful municipal governance as an example of national unity through empowered local governments.
- Siddiqui said MQM-P has long maintained that those who take votes bear more responsibility than those who cast them. However, feudal and dynastic politics in Pakistan block meaningful devolution of authority.
- The party claims that a minority benefiting from urban dominance is obstructing the transfer of powers and resources to the people.
28th Amendment Demand
- The 28th Amendment is intended to grant more authority to mayors and town nazims and strengthen all 144 districts and cities in Pakistan.
- Siddiqui urged the government and other political parties to support the amendment to ensure a united Pakistan, particularly amid ongoing regional conflicts.
- MQM-P stresses that empowered local governance is vital for national security, especially in cities like Karachi, which could be primary targets in a conflict scenario.
Context and National Security
- MQM-P links the devolution of powers to better management during wartime and emergencies, arguing that the civil administration must operate alongside the military effectively.
- Health Minister Mustafa Kamal noted that Pakistan has over 400 cities managed by only four chief ministers, making the current system insufficient to handle emergencies or crises, including the energy shortage, which he called a national security issue.
Other Statements
- Siddiqui condemned administrative negligence during disasters like the Gul Plaza tragedy, where over 80 people died and thousands of shops were destroyed, emphasizing the need for citizen-led governance.
- Senior party leader Dr Farooq Sattar said the people should decide their own destiny, and that a participatory local government system is crucial for Pakistan’s survival.
MQM-P’s push for the 28th Amendment underscores a broader demand to transform Pakistan’s feudal democracy into an inclusive, participatory system, strengthen local governance, and ensure national security amid ongoing regional tensions. The party has signaled it will support the government if its proposals are accepted, highlighting both political and civic accountability as essential for the country’s future.
