Naqvi says new administrative units to be formed only with people's consent

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated on Saturday that only with the consent of the people should new administrative units be created in the country. Addressing the National Policy Dialogue in Lahore, Naqvi emphasized that "resetting" does not equate to dismantling the system but rather addressing its flaws. He stressed that any changes should be made through "political consensus" and "according to the will of our people."

Naqvi clarified that such a change could not be imposed solely by an individual, political party, or government; it must be the people's decision. He called for a dialogue to consider the pros and cons of new units, urging the creation of "draft" and presenting it to the public for acceptance. Naqvi also highlighted the need to review the benefits, methods, and financial consequences of these units.

He reassured that his previous comments were not targeted at any particular political party but the system established since Pakistan's independence. Naqvi underscored that all reforms must follow the Constitution and be undertaken democratically. He called for political parties to deliberate on the matter and urged politicians not to get emotional about the topic, emphasizing that the change would not happen overnight.

The minister acknowledged the country's administrative system's ineffectiveness, citing issues such as poor education and limited access to clean water. He proposed that the federal capital, Islamabad, be declared a province and receive its share of the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award. Naqvi argued that the proposed reforms aim to empower the people, ensuring that a Sindhi remains a Sindhi and a Punjabi remains a Punjabi, and no one's identity would be surrendered.

He reiterated that the discussion on reforms should not be based on generational, tribal, or regional divides, focusing instead on improved governance and bringing people closer to the government.