Chief Minister Sohail Afridi arrived in Karachi on Friday for a four-day visit as part of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) street mobilisation campaign. A meeting between him and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah was scheduled for Monday, January 12.
However, the meeting reportedly cancelled after sources said the Sindh chief minister excused himself. The decision comes just ahead of PTI’s planned public gathering outside Mazar-e-Quaid today.
Sindh Minister for Local Government, Housing, and Town Planning Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, however, claimed unawareness of any cancellation. He told media that no meeting was officially scheduled and expressed doubt that the Sindh chief minister would refuse a meeting.
Meanwhile, PTI has announced a public congregation on the road near the Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum. Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar stated that the party has not received permission to hold a political rally on a public road. He warned that strict action would be taken if the gathering proceeds without approval.
“The Sindh government has cooperated, but no one can challenge the writ of the government,” the home minister added, urging PTI to hold its rally only at approved locations.
This situation has attracted attention, as political gatherings are sensitive in urban areas like Karachi. Observers noted that the meeting reportedly cancelled could influence discussions between federal and provincial leadership regarding PTI’s activities in Sindh.
Political analysts also highlighted that the cancellation of the meeting and the upcoming rally could increase tensions between the provincial government and PTI supporters. Authorities are expected to monitor public spaces closely to prevent any unlawful gatherings.
The PTI visit continues, with party leaders engaging with supporters across Karachi. However, the meeting reportedly cancelled adds uncertainty to coordination between PTI leadership and the Sindh government.
Officials have called for calm and legal adherence during political events. Citizens have been advised to avoid areas near Mazar-e-Quaid to prevent traffic congestion and potential disruption during the rally.
The situation remains under close observation as both PTI and Sindh government plan their next steps in light of the cancelled meeting and upcoming public activities.
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