President’s London tour sets tongues wagging
ISLAMABAD: Amid the ongoing debate over the creation of new provinces and the PPP’s outright rejection of the proposal, President Asif Ali Zardari’s extended presence in London has raised questions about the political dimensions of the tour, particularly when Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who had recently floated the idea, is also in the UK. While some believe the president travelled to London…
President Asif Ali Zardari's recent London visit has sparked debate regarding its political implications, particularly in light of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi's presence. While some speculate the trip was solely for medical reasons, others suggest it was a strategic move to exert pressure on the government. A video clip of Naqvi's meeting with Zardari further fueled speculation.
Following the visit, Naqvi reiterated his call for administrative reform, proposing a "reset" of the system to better serve citizens. This included discussing the possibility of granting provincial status to Islamabad, a point not initially included in the National Finance Commission award. Concurrently, senior PPP leaders met with Zardari, and the Sindh Assembly passed a resolution rejecting further provincial creation.
The PPP maintains the trip was purely for medical reasons, dismissing any political undertones. However, the party's stance has shifted, with opposition to the creation of new provinces across all four existing provinces. This shift is significant as the PPP's support is crucial for the PML-N-led government's ability to pass constitutional amendments.
Meanwhile, Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan from the Istehkam-i-Pakistan Party has criticized the government's handling of basic necessities and infrastructure, highlighting concerns over water supply, hospital conditions, and educational access.
Written by urgent.news from Dawn's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
