Gul Plaza fire: MQM-P’s Mustafa Kamal urges federal control of Karachi

WEB DESK: Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal on Thursday called for Karachi to be placed under federal administration, urging an end to what he described as “democratic terrorism” in the city. He said the recent Gul Plaza fire was a stark reminder of the daily risks faced by residents. “We share equally in the pain of the victims,” Kamal added.

Reflecting on the city’s political history, Kamal criticised the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), which has governed Sindh for 18 years. He claimed that in 2018, the PPP was granted “complete freedom” to act unchecked and warned that the party’s actions could destabilise the government. “We will not be blackmailed by past allegations,” he said.

Kamal also attacked the 18th Amendment, calling it a “national disaster” and saying it had failed to benefit the people. “The 18th Amendment has become a cancer; it should end. This is nothing less than a form of generational oppression,” he said.

He highlighted Karachi’s chronic violence and insecurity, stating, “Every day people die here. How much blood must we shed? How many children must fall into gutters? How many more bodies must we carry?” Kamal recalled that at one point, 100 people died daily in the city, reflecting the urgent need for reforms.

Kamal also defended MQM, describing it as a major political force that has played a visible role in maintaining peace. He criticised Pakistan’s past governance and security failures, alleging that for 25 years, the country was under the influence of India’s intelligence agency, RAW, and questioned, “To whom have we been handed over?”

He concluded by calling for accountability and action for Karachi residents. “We owe the people justice. The entire city is telling us we are not doing enough,” Kamal said, reiterating his demand for federal oversight to restore security and governance in Karachi.