MQM-P Demands Karachi Be Declared Federal Territory After Gul Plaza Tragedy

KARACHI, January 22, 2026: Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) leader and Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal on Thursday demanded that Karachi be declared a federal territory under Articles 148 and 149 of the Constitution. He said this step was necessary “for the sake of Pakistan”, following the recent Gul Plaza fire tragedy that killed dozens in the city.

MQM-P Criticizes Sindh Government

Speaking at a press conference at the party’s Bahadurabad headquarters, Kamal said the Sindh government had failed in managing the city. He added, “Enough is enough…. Karachi cannot be left at the Sindh government’s mercy.”

He urged the federal government to take control and ensure that Karachi continues as the financial capital of Pakistan.

Comments on Gul Plaza Fire

On the Gul Plaza incident, Kamal questioned the authorities, asking:

• “How many more accidents must we endure?”

• “How many more bodies must be recovered?”

• “How many more children will fall into open drains and die?”

He described the situation as “democratic terrorism in Sindh” and demanded immediate action to end the lawlessness. Kamal also criticized the PPP-led government, saying Karachi was safer before their rule and that the party had ignored public welfare while disasters occurred.

He recalled that during the period of lawlessness in Karachi, PPP ministers traveled to London to meet Altaf Hussain, while criticizing MQM for past issues.

Criticism of the 18th Amendment

Kamal blamed the 18th Amendment for worsening governance in Sindh, calling it a “cancer for the country” and demanding its abolition. He claimed powers given to provincial governments under the amendment were being misused against citizens instead of promoting welfare.

Federal Response

Separately, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah said the 18th Amendment was passed through consensus and can be improved through consensus.

Speaking on Geo News, Sanaullah stressed the importance of empowering district governments, saying:

• “People’s problems cannot be resolved until local governments are strengthened.”

• “District governments must be empowered to ensure effective service delivery.”

He also suggested that the constitution provides room for improvement rather than abolishing the amendment outright.