“PPP Leader Claims Karachi’s Citizens Recognize Our Efforts, Regardless of Opposition”
Sindh Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah Asserts MQM No Longer Controls Karachi, Defends PPP’s Contributions
Sindh Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah has made a bold statement asserting that the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) no longer wields control over Karachi. This declaration follows recent comments by MQM leader Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui regarding Jinnah Hospital, which Shah has labeled as “ridiculous.”
In his response, Shah highlighted the substantial financial investments made by the Sindh government in key healthcare institutions, including Jinnah Hospital, the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), and the National Institute of Child Health (NICH). He pointed out that the Sindh government allocates Rs30 billion annually to these hospitals, underscoring the commitment to improving public health services in Karachi.
Addressing Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui’s remarks, Shah dismissed them as irrelevant, emphasizing that the true measure of the government’s efforts is the recognition and acknowledgment of Karachi’s citizens. “Karachi’s citizens acknowledge our efforts, whether you do or not is irrelevant,” Shah asserted, reinforcing the point that public recognition of the Sindh government’s work is what truly matters.
Shah further challenged MQM’s claims about Karachi’s financial contributions, including taxes and donations. He reminded Siddiqui of the MQM’s past practice of collecting donations in the form of sacrificial hides from the city’s residents. Shah questioned the transparency and usage of these donations, contrasting it with how the Sindh government utilizes its funds for public welfare. “The donations our hospitals receive are spent on public welfare. Where have your donations gone?” he queried.
In his statement, Shah emphasized that the Sindh government’s work in the health sector is widely recognized across the country. He expressed frustration with MQM’s continuous denial of the PPP government’s achievements. “You deny every good deed of the PPP government, but the people of Karachi recognize our efforts,” Shah said, asserting that Karachi’s residents have a clear understanding of the contributions made by the Sindh government.
Shah’s comments also touched upon the role of philanthropists who contribute to Jinnah Hospital, viewing it as a sign of public trust in the Sindh government. He praised the appreciation shown by Karachi’s citizens for the PPP’s services, while criticizing MQM for focusing on rhetoric rather than tangible contributions. “MQM spends its energy on rhetoric while PPP focuses its resources on serving the public,” Shah stated.
The Energy Minister also addressed broader concerns about Karachi’s cultural and educational landscape. He questioned the responsibility for the perceived decline in vibrancy, cultural gatherings, and educational activities in the city. Shah firmly stated that the PPP government has played a crucial role in restoring peace, development, and cultural events in Karachi. “The city has seen enough bloodshed and violence; it has now moved past hatred, narrow-mindedness, and despair,” he remarked.
Shah’s concluding message was a call to avoid any attempts to revert Karachi to its previous state of discord and turmoil. He asserted that the PPP government has been instrumental in moving the city forward and emphasized the need to maintain this progress.
Overall, Nasir Hussain Shah’s statements underscore the ongoing political tension between the PPP and MQM, highlighting the Sindh government’s achievements and its commitment to addressing the needs of Karachi’s residents. The remarks reflect a broader narrative of political rivalry and the efforts of both parties to assert their influence and contributions to the city’s development.