The Sindh Assembly recently passed a significant resolution affirming Karachi’s integral part within the province, directly countering divisive statements about splitting Sindh or separating the city. The move comes amid growing tensions over Karachi’s administrative status and its role in Pakistan’s future.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah took to the stage with an urgent appeal for unity, rejecting any talk of carving out Karachi as a separate entity. He emphasized that Sindh played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s creation and had long maintained its distinct identity even under British rule.
Addressing fellow lawmakers in the chamber, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah condemned those who sought to divide or detach Karachi from Sindh. He pointed out that such narratives were detrimental to national unity and went against history and constitutional principles. Drawing parallels with a resolution passed decades ago, he stressed the need for strong support behind this new measure.
Murad Ali Shah’s remarks came as part of his broader commitment to protecting Sindh’s integrity. He also highlighted Karachi’s historical significance in Pakistani politics, recalling how it was made the federal capital during President Zardari’s tenure.
He added that under current constitutional frameworks, any effort to split Sindh would require a two-thirds majority in the assembly. The chief minister reiterated that his aim was not to target any political party but rather to safeguard provincial unity. He also stressed that discussions on Karachi’s administrative issues should be kept separate from debates about Sindh’s integrity.
Through his address, Murad Ali Shah reaffirmed the Pakistan People’s Party’s commitment to national cohesion and vowed never to support a division of Sindh or Karachi. His speech underscored the urgency for collective action in safeguarding provincial unity and instilled confidence among lawmakers about the resolution’s prospects for passing unanimously.
In essence, this recent assembly move symbolizes Sindh’s steadfast determination to uphold its identity while navigating complex challenges related to Karachi’s role within the province.