MQM-P Leader Demands Federal Government Clarify Sudden Sindh Governor Change
Senior leader of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), Waseem Akhtar, has publicly called on the federal government to provide a clear explanation for the abrupt removal of Kamran Tessori as the governor of Sindh. This demand comes after the federal government nominated Nehal Hashmi, a prominent figure from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), to assume the gubernatorial role in the province.
Lack of Consultation Sparks Coalition Tensions
Speaking on the recent political development, Akhtar emphasized that the government should have, at the very least, consulted with MQM-P before making such a significant decision. "Even if the government had valid reasons to remove Kamran Tessori, it should have informed us, just as it consults us on critical matters like constitutional amendments," he stated. Akhtar further highlighted that it was the government's ethical responsibility to transparently communicate its concerns to the party.
Akhtar also raised questions about whether external pressures influenced the decision, specifically pointing to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). When asked about MQM-P's future within the ruling coalition, he declared his intention to strongly advocate for the party's exit from the government during their next meeting. "I will strongly recommend that MQM-P exit the coalition government and register a strong protest," he affirmed. However, he noted that no emergency meeting has been scheduled yet to address this issue.
Broader National Context and Party Stance
Addressing perceptions that MQM-P is determined to remain in government regardless of circumstances, Akhtar clarified that the party's current protest is adequate, especially considering the nation's security situation. "The entire country is facing economic challenges, and people continue to work on the same old salaries. We must also keep the broader national interest in mind," he added, underscoring a balanced approach between political grievances and national stability.
Earlier, MQM-P leader Farooq Sattar also expressed strong opposition to the governor's replacement, arguing that the Sindh governor position has traditionally been held by MQM-P and that the party is being unjustly deprived of what he termed its constitutional right. "Given such a unilateral decision, MQM-P has no justification to remain in the federal government. We should immediately exit the coalition government," Sattar asserted.
Government Actions and Political Dynamics
According to the Prime Minister's Office, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has forwarded a summary to Asif Ali Zardari for approval regarding Nehal Hashmi's appointment. The premier also met with Hashmi to congratulate him on his nomination as Sindh governor. The meeting was attended by key figures including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, and the prime minister's adviser on political affairs, Rana Sanaullah.
Akhtar mentioned that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is currently abroad, and the MQM-P leadership anticipates meeting him in Islamabad upon his return to further discuss the matter. This political maneuver highlights ongoing tensions within the ruling coalition, with MQM-P signaling potential repercussions if their concerns are not addressed.
