Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) leader and Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal has urged that Karachi be declared a federal territory.
Addressing a press conference in Karachi, Kamal said the provincial administration cannot manage the city effectively. He stressed that constitutionally, Karachi should be under direct federal control.
He described the 18th Amendment as a “cancerous obstacle” that has provided no real benefit to the people of Karachi. Kamal said ending the amendment is essential to save and efficiently run Pakistan.
The federal minister asked the government to fully exercise its powers under Articles 148 and 149 of the Constitution. He claimed this step would help streamline governance in the city and ensure accountability.
During discussions on the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment, Kamal said all political stakeholders supported his party’s suggestion, except the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). He explained that despite being constitutionally sound, the proposal was withdrawn due to political pressure.
Mustafa Kamal further stated that the PPP has enough votes to destabilize the government, leaving the state constrained while ordinary citizens suffer the consequences.
The MQM-P leader also raised concerns about what he described as “systematic victimisation” of his community in Sindh. He termed these practices “democratic terrorism” and demanded they be stopped immediately.
Kamal reiterated that making Karachi a federal territory would allow better management, reduce political conflicts, and improve public services. He emphasized that direct federal control is the only solution for the city’s ongoing administrative and governance problems.
The call for Karachi to become a federal territory highlights growing tensions between local and provincial authorities. Officials said any change would require constitutional amendments and broad political support.
With Karachi being Pakistan’s largest city, Kamal argued that federal administration would ensure equal development, law enforcement, and protection of citizens’ rights.
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