Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has described a recent protest in Islamabad, led by a specific political party, as a “circus with jokers” in attendance. Despite his strong criticism, he reiterated that the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) stands firmly against banning any political party. Speaking to the media after attending a conference at a local hotel on Friday, Shah commented on the political unrest in Islamabad, emphasizing the PPP’s commitment to democratic principles.
“The demand for the release of one individual is fundamentally flawed,” he said, adding that the PPP believes in resolving differences through dialogue rather than bans or suppression. Shah also touched upon the challenges of imposing Governor’s Rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), noting that implementing such measures has become increasingly difficult. He recalled that similar debates about Governor’s Rule in Sindh were a daily occurrence during the PTI government but were never acted upon.
Expressing concern about the federal government’s inaction, Shah criticized the delay in convening a Council of Common Interests (CCI) meeting, which he called a constitutional necessity. “It has been nine months since the last CCI meeting. This delay is not just a concern for Sindh but for the entire country,” he said. He linked the ongoing water crisis to the absence of CCI discussions, pointing out that no progress could be made without federal-level coordination.
On Sindh’s water rights, Shah was unequivocal: “Not a single drop of Sindh’s water will be given away. We will protect our rights without encroaching on anyone else’s.” Reaffirming the PPP’s stance against the Kalabagh Dam, Shah recalled Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s protest at Kamu Shaheed, a moment symbolic of the party’s resistance to the controversial project. He criticized those who once abandoned their positions during debates on anti-Kalabagh Dam resolutions but now remain silent. Responding to criticism from nationalist parties, Shah pointed out their absence from a recent JUI-F conference, attributing it to the PPP’s participation. “Their issue isn’t with the agenda but with the PPP.
We raise Sindh’s rights on every platform, and we are not afraid to speak up,” he asserted. Murad Ali Shah concluded by emphasizing the PPP’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Sindh’s rights and resources. “Our stance on protecting water and Sindh’s autonomy is clear and resolute. We will continue to advocate for our province on every forum,” he said.
