Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and President Asif Ali Zardari have reaffirmed their opposition to dividing Sindh following a key five-hour meeting in London. The meeting took place at Zardari’s residence and also included Bilawal’s sister, Bakhtawar Bhutto-Zardari.
According to sources, the leaders discussed Pakistan’s political situation and the growing debate over new provinces. They also reviewed PPP leader Faryal Talpur’s recent speech before deciding to maintain the party’s position against any division of Sindh.
PPP Stands Firm on Sindh
The meeting came after the Sindh Assembly passed a resolution on September 3 rejecting proposals to divide the province, change its territorial boundaries or create new administrative units. The resolution also stated that the assembly would not support any territorial changes involving Sindh.
Bilawal has repeatedly said the PPP supports decisions on new provinces only through political consensus. He also maintained that any discussion involving Sindh should take place through the provincial assembly.
Meanwhile, the debate over administrative restructuring has intensified in recent months. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi previously called for new administrative units, while Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal suggested creating 12 to 15 provinces through national consultation.
Political Debate Deepens
The proposals have faced strong resistance from the PPP, particularly over Sindh. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif subsequently accused the party of having a “double standard”, arguing that it supported a Saraiki province while raising the Sindhudesh issue during wider restructuring discussions.
Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah later described the debate as premature. However, the PPP continues to insist that provincial questions should undergo debate in elected assemblies and receive broad political consensus.
Following the London meeting, Bilawal and Bakhtawar returned to their residence. Bilawal told reporters that he would remain in London for several more days.
