Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leaders have sharply criticized recent statements surrounding provincial boundaries, warning that “controversial talks” are part of a conspiracy to destabilize the country and divide Sindh.
PPP leader Nisar Khuhro accused Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi of making provocative remarks following his meeting with the President, alleging an attempt to spoil the national atmosphere through such discourse.
“A terrible conspiracy is being made,” Khuhro told reporters. “Do we want 22 chief ministers by creating 22 provinces? Those who talk about the division of Sindh will face public backlash.”【0†L1-L6】
His remarks come amid growing debate over provincial reorganization, with some voices in Punjab calling for new provinces to be carved out.
Provincial Minister Saeed Ghani struck a more pointed tone, saying that while Sindh’s people and elected representatives oppose the formation of new provinces, Punjab should be free to pursue its own course if that is the will of its people.
“The people of Sindh and the elected people are saying that new provinces should not be formed,” Ghani said. “If the resolution was passed in Punjab, it means that the people there want provinces, they should be formed there.”【0†L8-L10】
The PPP leaders did not elaborate on specific threats, but Khuhro’s reference to “22 provinces” appeared to be a rhetorical warning against what he views as an effort to balkanize the country.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has not yet responded to the PPP’s allegations.
