POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

MQM-P Calls for Review of 28th Amendment, Pushes for Stronger Local Governance

MQM-P urges review of 28th Constitutional Amendment, demands empowered local governments and warns of rising political tensions in Pakistan
2026-03-25
MQM-P Calls for Review of 28th Amendment, Pushes for Stronger Local Governance

The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) has called on authorities to revisit the proposed 28th Constitutional Amendment, stressing the need to protect citizens’ rights and strengthen democratic governance in Pakistan.

Addressing a press conference in Karachi, MQM-P Chairman Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, flanked by senior leaders Mustafa Kamal and Farooq Sattar, highlighted what they described as intensifying political tensions and the urgent need for constitutional clarity.

Siddiqui stated that the 28th Amendment should be thoroughly reviewed and amended if necessary to ensure a decisive and timely resolution to ongoing political issues. He added that the political climate appears more receptive, noting that major parties are not opposing the amendment with the same intensity as before.

He further emphasised that once the amendment is presented and approved by parliament, it should be seen as a collective effort made in the national interest.

Speaking on governance reforms, Farooq Sattar underscored the importance of empowering local governments. He called for a transition from what he described as a “feudal democracy” to a more inclusive and participatory system, where cities have greater autonomy in decision-making.

Sattar argued that establishing a robust local government system, particularly in Karachi, would promote development, stability, and national unity while strengthening Pakistan’s territorial integrity.

Mustafa Kamal linked the need for constitutional reforms to broader national security concerns. He pointed to the evolving regional situation, warning that internal instability could be exploited by external forces if civil administrative structures remain weak.

Kamal stressed that local governments must be given the authority to manage their districts effectively, asserting that MQM-P’s demands go beyond politics and are essential for ensuring national stability.

The party’s stance comes amid recent political developments, including the removal of Kamran Tessori as Governor of Sindh on March 13. He was replaced by Nehal Hashmi, a move that sparked strong criticism from MQM-P.

The party expressed dissatisfaction over not being consulted prior to Tessori’s removal, calling the decision a “grave mistake” by the federal government and hinting at a reassessment of its political strategy.

Tessori, while refraining from directly naming those responsible, suggested that his removal could be linked to his advocacy on key issues such as the Gul Plaza matter and the “Karachi Bachao Conference.” He maintained that he would continue to raise concerns for the city despite political setbacks.

As political discussions around the 28th Constitutional Amendment gain momentum, MQM-P’s demands are expected to add to the ongoing national debate on governance, democracy, and institutional reforms.