MQM-P urges govt to introduce 28th Amendment to empower local bodies

The Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) on Thursday called on the government to introduce the 28th Amendment to devolve powers to the grassroots level, describing the move as essential to safeguard the country and transform Pakistan’s feudal democracy into a participatory and inclusive system. MQM-P Convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, speaking at a press conference alongside central committee members in Karachi, said Pakistan is currently governed under a feudal-style democracy. Citing Iran’s successful resistance as an example, he stated that one reason for Iranian national unity is the municipal government in Tehran. Dr Siddiqui said MQM-P has consistently maintained that those who take votes bear greater responsibility than those who cast them, but feudal democracy, dynastic politics, and hereditary power do not consider it necessary in Pakistan. “We had hoped the 28th Amendment would devolve powers to local bodies, but this did not happen. Now, with discussions of lockdowns and an economic crisis, it is time to transfer authority to local levels and prepare accordingly,” he said. Read: PM seeks to cool tempers amid escalating PPP-MQM row He noted that the country appears ready for this change, with political parties unlikely to oppose it. However, a small minority—benefiting from the city’s dominance, holding an artificial majority, and influenced by a feudal mindset—is blocking the transfer of authority, powers, and resources to the people of Pakistan. “Pakistan’s highest court had ruled in favour of MQM-P leadership’s request. The prime minister should explain what MQM-P demanded for the continuity of democracy. We did not demand anything for ourselves; we only asked that Pakistan’s constitution be made accessible to the people,” he added. Dr Siddiqui urged all political parties and the government, through the media, to introduce the 28th Amendment. “Give us a response so that we can make a final decision on standing with the government. Our demand for devolution of powers is intended to safeguard the nation. Only a united Pakistan can stand with the country in war,” he said. He further said the government had played an active role after the war but warned that it was too early to predict the challenges Pakistan may face. “Pakistan has been playing a mediatory role, and we stand with it. We must remain mentally prepared. The army defending Pakistan is professional, and during wartime, it is not only the army but the entire nation that fights,” Siddiqui added. He warned that if an enemy decided to inflict harm, Karachi would be the first target. “Karachi cannot be left in this state, and Pakistan’s security cannot be guaranteed. If the government accepts our demands, we will stand with it to save the country. The fire that has been spoken about for the last two to three decades has now reached our doorstep,” he said. Addressing the Gul Plaza tragedy, in which over 80 people were burnt alive and more than a thousand shops were destroyed, Siddiqui reiterated his party’s stance, saying that MQM-P stands with the victims. “If we have to take to the streets for their rights, we will not hesitate. The city administration leaves for their native areas during holidays. Their absence during emergencies will further worsen disorder and insecurity in the city. Only the people of Pakistan can save the country,” he said. Also Read: CM asks MQM-P to 'walk the talk' on federal control demand Also addressing the presser, senior party leader Dr Farooq Sattar said it was time to transform Pakistan’s feudal democracy into a participatory and inclusive system. “The people should be given the right to decide their own destiny. An effective and empowered local government system has become essential for the survival of the country,” he said. He added that MQM has proposed a formula to strengthen all 144 districts and cities in Pakistan demanding that a Strategic Development Plan must be fully implemented. “The fate of the people cannot be decided by the 1,200 representatives in the national and provincial assemblies. It should be decided on the grassroot level and it can only be happened by granting authority if a mayor or town nazim be empowered,” he said. Health Minister Mustafa Kamal, speaking at the same conference, said that civil administration operates alongside the military in modern warfare. He noted that Pakistan is currently governed by four chief ministers, and with over 400 cities, managing them under the current system is impossible. He added that controlling the energy crisis is also unfeasible without empowered local representatives, calling it a national security issue. Given ongoing regional conflicts, he said MQM’s proposed constitutional amendment is more necessary than ever.