CREATION of a coordination committee by Federal and Sindh governments had given some ray of hope to people of Karachi that finally some of their pressing issues will be resolved. Instead of taking this spirit of consultation and cooperation forward, the Sindh government unilaterally decided to carve out a new district Kemari in Karachi which is being seen as a ploy to further strengthen PPP’s hold on provincial metropolis in next local bodies elections.
PPP is a party that is known for politics of consensus, reconciliation and its leaders always speak highly about supremacy of Parliament and stress for its involvement in the decision-making. Yet the way Sindh government decided upon Kemari district is contrary to this principle as PPP avoided taking opposition parties on board on the matter. This is the reason that opposition parties are outraged and smelling a foul play. Their concerns are genuine, as decision of new district has come at a time when tenure of local bodies in the province is ending on August 29. Indeed if new provinces can be created then why not districts but it is the timing of decision that has raised suspicion. This has only created an impression amongst Karachiites that PPP leadership is more concerned about strengthening their foothold in the city rather than addressing their problems.
In fact the provincial government would not have required resorting to such tactics, if it had prioritised winning hearts and minds of people by addressing their chronic issues. Today the city, known as economic hub of Pakistan, is faced with plethora of problems and recent rains have further complicated the problems of its residents. All political parties must maintain the spirit of cooperation to address these problems on permanent basis. We, therefore, will suggest the provincial government to withdraw this controversial decision and take the matter of creation of new districts in the province to Sindh Assembly for thorough deliberations. It should also hold meaningful consultations with opposition parties on new local government act in order to come up with a system that fully empowers local bodies. The PPP has championed the cause of provincial autonomy and devolution of power and it should not abstain from transferring these powers to the grassroots, as it is the only course to improve service delivery.
