MQM-P calls to revisit 28th Amendment, transform ‘feudal democracy into participatory democracy’

Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, MQM-P Chairman Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, alongside Mustafa Kamal and Farooq Sattar, highlighted what they described as the escalation of long-standing political tensions.

“Today, to address this properly, the 28th Constitution Amendment needs to be reviewed, and if necessary, amended. This would allow a decisive resolution to be made urgently.” Siddiqui told reporters.

“Pakistan seems prepared, and political parties do not appear to oppose the 28th Amendment with the same intensity,” he added.

He added that after the amendment is tabled and cleared by the country’s lawmakers, people should know they did it for the sake of the country.

Farooq Sattar also weighed in, emphasising local governance and citizen participation. “Now’s the time to transform Pakistan’s feudal democracy into a participatory democracy that’s inclusive. Every city in Pakistan should have the right to decide its own fate.”

“A system of empowered local governments should be established in Pakistan, including Karachi. This will ensure progress, stability, and strengthen Pakistan’s unity, territorial integrity, and development.”

Mustafa Kamal added a broader perspective, linking constitutional reform to national security. “When you look at today’s tense regional scenario, countries are preparing for crises. Pakistan’s civil administration must be empowered alongside the military to ensure stability”.

“Local governments need authority to manage their own districts; otherwise, internal instability will be exploited by external threats. This is why MQM-P’s constitutional demands are not just political—they are a national security necessity,” he said.

On March 13, MQM- P’s leader, Kamran Tessori, was removed as governor of Sindh and replaced by PML-N stalwart Nehal Hashmi.

The surprise move to appoint Hashmi has drawn a strong reaction from MQM-P, which complained that it had not been taken on board before the decision to remove its nominee from office, calling it a “grave mistake” by Islamabad and vowing to soon decide its future course of action.

Tessori suggested that his removal might be linked to his initiatives, including the Gul Plaza issue and the ‘Karachi Bachao Conference’. He said, “I knew who was behind the decision but would remain politically silent in the larger national interest.”

Tessori said If I am punished for raising issues related to Gul Plaza and the ‘Karachi Bachao Conference’, I will continue to speak up for the city. I could reveal who removed me and on whose instructions, but I choose not to do so.”