Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) leader Dr Farooq Sattar criticized the federal government’s handling of Karachi’s governance issues in light of the Gul Plaza tragedy. Speaking to media over the incident, Sattar argued that instead of imposing governor’s rule under Article 145 of the Constitution, the federal government should take direct control of Karachi by invoking Article 148.
Sattar asserted that his party had provided the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) with two years to address the situation, but there has been no meaningful response. He demanded the resignation of the Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, and Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon, accusing them of evading accountability.
The MQM-P leader also criticized the provincial leadership for refusing to take a democratic approach, attributing their actions to arrogance driven by power and money. He reiterated his party’s demand for a judicial commission, rejecting any inquiries conducted by the Karachi commissioner. Sattar stated that he would not withdraw this demand even if his security was withdrawn or false cases were registered against MQM-P leaders.
Sattar warned that the Gul Plaza incident would continue to haunt the ruling PPP and that alleged injustices would eventually collapse. He maintained that MQM-P had faced similar pressure in the past but would continue its struggle for justice.
In response, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon said he had already stated before Dr Sattar’s press conference that a judicial commission would be formed if required. He emphasized that the Sindh government would not operate on MQM-P’s “timetable” and challenged Dr Sattar to resign alongside him and contest elections, stating it would then be clear who enjoyed public support.
Memon dismissed Sattar’s comments as contradictory and accused him of seeking confrontation with his party. He claimed that forensic work was progressing swiftly and that Punjab-based forensic experts had been engaged in good faith for the investigation. Memon further stated that a comprehensive report under the Karachi commissioner would be reviewed, and if any shortcomings were found, a judicial commission would be constituted.
Sattar’s statement ignited public debate over the governance of Sindh and the handling of the Gul Plaza tragedy. The controversy continued to influence political dynamics in the region.