Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has reportedly agreed in principle to creating new provinces within Punjab. However, the party wants the proposed administrative units established after the 2029 general elections. Senior journalist and television host Sohail Warraich made this claim in a recent column.
According to Warraich, PML-N is willing to support the required legislation despite having certain reservations. The proposal reportedly involves dividing Punjab into four administrative provinces. However, their final number and geographical boundaries remain undecided.
The journalist also suggested that influential circles have shown growing interest in the proposal. Discussions about creating new Punjab Provinces reportedly continue despite recent political statements. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari had previously suggested that the debate had reached a full stop.
Warraich claimed that legislation could still be introduced before March 2027. However, the actual establishment of new provinces would happen after the 2029 general elections. This timeline reportedly reflects a condition attached to PML-N’s support.
The proposed schedule is also linked to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s political strategy. According to the columnist, she could use upcoming years to strengthen political support. Development projects may play an important role before any administrative restructuring takes place.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Peoples Party reportedly has no objection to creating new provinces within Punjab. However, the party remains strongly opposed to dividing Sindh. Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has repeatedly expressed resistance to proposals involving Sindh’s division.
Warraich also claimed that some PPP figures favour negotiations with influential political circles. One proposal reportedly involves placing Karachi and Gwadar under federal administration. Islamabad would remain part of the same administrative arrangement.
Under this reported proposal, Karachi could continue serving as Sindh’s provincial capital. Another suggestion involves dividing the remaining parts of Sindh into two administrative units. Each proposed unit would include urban centres and less-developed areas.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) also supports the creation of new provinces in principle. However, questions remain about whether the party would support legislation under the current political setup. Some members of its parliamentary leadership could reportedly consider cooperation in exchange for political concessions.
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has expressed reservations about the timing. He does not consider the current political situation suitable for creating new provinces. His position reportedly reflects concerns about the timing rather than outright opposition to administrative changes.
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The discussion surrounding new Punjab Provinces remains at the political and legislative consideration stage. No final decision has been announced regarding their number or boundaries. The reported proposal could become a major political issue ahead of the next general elections.
