Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) presented a set of demands to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in exchange for their support of constitutional amendments, sources revealed. The delegation, led by MQM-P Chairman Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, emphasized the need for empowered local bodies across the country and proposed amendments to Article 140-A of the Constitution, which pertains to local governance. The MQM-P submitted a draft proposal for inclusion in the government’s planned constitutional amendments.
The sources further indicated that a delegation from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), headed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, is expected to visit the MQM-P headquarters in Bahadurabad to discuss these proposed amendments. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had previously assured MQM-P leaders that the party’s constitutional amendments would be discussed with other parliamentary parties before being presented to parliament. During their meeting, the MQM-P also raised concerns about federal projects in Sindh, emphasizing the need for funds to be allocated for development in their constituencies.
Another key issue raised by the MQM-P was related to Independent Power Procedures (IPPs) agreements, with the party urging the formulation of policies to address Pakistan’s ongoing economic challenges. Additionally, MQM-P representatives demanded that Karachi be exempted from the burden of additional taxes, highlighting the city’s economic strain. The discussions reflect MQM-P’s continued focus on decentralizing power and ensuring that local bodies have greater autonomy and resources to address the needs of the people. The proposed amendments, if passed, could reshape the structure of local governance across Pakistan, giving more authority to municipalities and city governments. The upcoming meeting between PML-N and MQM-P officials will be crucial in determining the future of these constitutional amendments and whether the government can secure MQM-P’s support in the parliament.
