PML-N Commends MQM-P's Role in Coalition Government

KARACHI: In a significant development for Pakistan's political landscape, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhry, recently commended the role of Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) in the coalition government. This praise comes in the wake of a meeting held at MQM-Pakistan’s Pakistan House, where Iqbal met with MQM-P leadership, including its Chairman and Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training, Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui.

During the meeting, Iqbal emphasized that no democratic individual could oppose the Constitutional Amendment Package of Pakistan. He highlighted the coalition government's success in revitalizing the country's economy, a feat that has been a focal point of their agenda. Iqbal stated, "We built a consensus, which was a democratic process," indicating the collaborative efforts made to address various national issues.

Furthermore, Iqbal acknowledged the continuous support from MQM-P regarding critical matters, particularly the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) issue, which they successfully resolved together. He remarked, "We worked very hard to save Pakistan from economic default," underscoring the urgency and importance of their collaborative efforts.

Reflecting on the past, Iqbal noted the derailment of the democratic process in Pakistan due to Article 58-2B, which led to a series of political upheavals. He pointed out that the former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif faced an illegal sentence, which he argued was detrimental not only to Sharif but also to the nation’s development, including projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Iqbal lamented the four years from 2018 to 2022, stating, "There was only darkness and damages during this period," which severely impacted the nation and cities like Karachi.

In a critical analysis of the political climate, Iqbal expressed concern over politically motivated judicial decisions that have harmed the country. He stressed the need for the judiciary to remain impartial and free from political influence, stating, "We wanted to keep the courts beyond any political issue." This sentiment reflects a broader desire for a stable and fair political environment in Pakistan.

Addressing the concerns raised by MQM-P regarding local governance, Iqbal reiterated their commitment to Article 140 A, which aims to provide constitutional protection to local government bodies. He assured that a consensus would be sought following the approval of the constitutional amendment, indicating a proactive approach to governance.

Moreover, Iqbal confirmed that the federal government would collaborate with MQM-P on the budget for urban development projects in Karachi and Hyderabad. He mentioned that the Prime Minister had directed WAPDA regarding the K-IV project and allocated education funds, showcasing the government's commitment to addressing urban challenges.

The meeting between PML-N and MQM-P leadership signifies a crucial step towards fostering cooperation in Pakistan's political framework. As the coalition government navigates through economic and developmental challenges, the emphasis on consensus-building and collaborative governance could pave the way for a more stable and prosperous future for the nation. The ongoing dialogue between these political entities reflects a commitment to addressing the pressing issues faced by the citizens, ultimately aiming for a brighter tomorrow for Pakistan.