Tensions between the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have intensified as they engage in a war of words regarding the K-IV water supply project. The disagreement began with MQM-P leader Mustafa Kamal’s accusation that the PPP’s "anti-Karachi mindset” was the reason for the project’s failure. In response, Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon dismissed the allegations as baseless.
Undeterred by Minister Memon’s denial, the MQM-P held a press conference and presented facts and figures highlighting what they deemed as the PPP’s "poor performance” during their 15-year rule. The MQM-P leader Muhammad Hussain questioned the need for federal government control over Karachi’s administration, citing the PPP’s inability to fulfill even basic needs such as water after their long tenure.
Regarding their relationship with the PPP, Hussain clarified that the MQM-P was still an opposition party in Sindh and only maintained a "working relationship” with the ruling party. He emphasized that being allies at the federal level did not grant the PPP immunity from criticism or accountability.
In response, Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani of the PPP called for the MQM-P’s accountability in the Centre, stating that the days of politicians treating Karachi as their fiefdom were over. Ghani questioned why the MQM-P chose to abstain from the local government elections in Karachi and urged them to present themselves for accountability.
Ghani highlighted that the Sindh government had served the people of Karachi well and received their support in the local government polls. He emphasized that the era of treating Karachi as a political party’s property had ended and stated that the PPP refrained from criticizing the MQM-P out of respect for their leadership but asserted that it should not be seen as a weakness.
The exchange of statements reflects the ongoing tensions between the MQM-P and PPP, despite being coalition partners in the federal government led by the Pakistan Democratic Movement.
