Federal Minister for Health and senior MQM-Pakistan leader Syed Mustafa Kamal addressed a large public gathering in Liaquatabad on Saturday, emphasizing the party’s position on the 18th Amendment.
He stated that although MQM-Pakistan had supported the 18th Amendment, powers were never effectively transferred to the people. Resources under the amendment went to provincial governments, while citizens of urban Sindh continued to face injustice.
Mustafa Kamal warned that if powers are not devolved to local levels, his party will demand the repeal of the 18th Amendment. He strongly criticised the ruling authorities, questioning: “How long will our children continue to die—falling into drains, burning in shopping centers, or crushed under dumpers?”
Highlighting the flaws in constituency delimitation in Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, Sukkur, Nawabshah, and Karachi, he said it had curtailed migrant votes and urban representation, splitting the MQM vote.
Mustafa Kamal asserted that the MQM is no longer just a party for migrants but has become a voice for all communities, with its flag raised in every district. He urged focus on citizens’ rights, noting that Karachi’s residents face acute problems with water, electricity, gas, employment, and education. “In a population of 30 million, every household has complaints, yet the rulers remain silent on citizens’ issues,” he added.
Announcing the launch of a citywide protest, Mustafa Kamal said gatherings will be held in every town of Karachi, culminating in a large public protest rally. He affirmed that the MQM’s flag will be raised across Sindh and Pakistan, giving voice to citizens fighting for their rights.
He also criticised the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), stating that the party has oppressed the poor peasants of Sindh more than the citizens of Karachi. The MQM-Pakistan is fighting for the rights of the underprivileged and oppressed Sindhis, and Mustafa Kamal urged Sindhi citizens not to fall for the misconceptions spread by the PPP.
