PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has emphasized that Pakistan should begin creating new provinces where “broad consensus already exists” rather than engaging in long-term, expansive restructuring conversations. Speaking with senior journalists, he noted that the Punjab Assembly has already passed a resolution for a new province and that the National Assembly holds cross-party agreement on certain proposals.
“Before talking about 20 new provinces, let’s start where everyone already agrees,” Bilawal said, pressing for immediate implementation of pending administrative reforms. He added that earlier consensus emerged even when PPP did not command a majority, yet progress stalled. “If the work was supposed to happen, it would have happened by now,” he remarked.
Local Governance and Comparative Models
Addressing local government structures, Bilawal contrasted Punjab’s newly enacted local system with Sindh’s model. He argued that Sindh’s framework remains “stronger and more functional,” positioning it as a more stable governance structure compared to Punjab’s evolving model.
Reconciliation as the Only Way Forward
The PPP chairman stressed that political reconciliation is essential, warning that conflicts between provinces or parties worsen national challenges. He said political stability depends on all political stakeholders engaging in dialogue, regardless of the difficulties.
Revisiting past political developments, he highlighted that the no-confidence motion that removed a sitting prime minister for the first time in Pakistan’s history originated from the PPP.
Critique of PTI and KP Governance
Bilawal accused the PTI of maintaining a “consistently problematic” political attitude, noting that its founder still adopts a confrontational approach that strains the system. He reiterated that he holds no personal animosity, asserting that the “method is the problem.”
He said PTI’s governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has “already failed,” which complicates efforts toward reconciliation. “Whenever PPP prepares to take a step forward, the situation on the other side deteriorates,” he noted.
Relations with PML-N and Future Ambitions
Bilawal also recalled meeting Nawaz Sharif in Kot Lakhpat Jail, saying Nawaz resumed criticism of PPP soon after his release. He acknowledged that PPP’s political position in Punjab remains difficult for others to accept.
Still, he praised Maryam Nawaz for her performance in Punjab and expressed openness to other parties expanding their influence in Sindh. Confident about his own political future, he stated: “The public will vote, and if they do, I will certainly become prime minister.”
