Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has proposed creating new administrative units across Pakistan. He said Karachi and Gwadar should become part of the federation instead of separate provinces. His remarks followed Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s call for governance reforms.
Asif Rejects Ethnic Basis For New Provinces
Speaking during a private television interview, Asif said the debate over new administrative units was longstanding. However, he noted the discussion gained momentum after Naqvi’s recent remarks.
He said local governments play essential roles in modern democracies. However, Pakistan’s governance system remains fragmented and ineffective.
Asif recalled that local governments were revived during the 1980s. He added that today’s provincial and federal leadership emerged from that system. Nevertheless, he argued Karachi’s grassroots governance remains disconnected.
The minister also stressed that resources should reach the lowest levels of government. He said stronger local governments would improve public service delivery. Furthermore, he noted Punjab has yet to hold local government elections.
Minister Calls For Practical Governance Reforms
Asif rejected proposals for provinces based on ethnicity or language. He warned such measures could open a “Pandora’s box” and create further divisions.
Instead, he supported administrative units within existing provinces. He cited DG Khan as an example of a region suitable for administrative restructuring.
He described the creation of new administrative units as beneficial for Pakistan. Moreover, he said his proposal reflected practical governance needs rather than personal opinions.
Asif also described Pakistan’s current hybrid system as a guarantee of change. He predicted authorities would make major governance decisions within two to three months. These decisions could include new administrative units and stronger local governments.
Political analysts believe Asif’s remarks have revived debate over Pakistan’s governance model. They say the discussion now focuses on strengthening local governments instead of expanding traditional provincial structures.
