The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) has taken a decisive stand against what it perceives as unjust constituency delineation by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). Following the issuance of final constituencies, the party has announced its intent to pursue legal action against these decisions.
Speaking to the media after a comprehensive review of rally preparations at Karachi’s Mangal Bazaar ground, MQM-P convener Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui highlighted concerns regarding what he described as severe gerrymandering in Union Council constituencies during the initial local body elections.
He expressed alarm, suggesting a similar trend in urban areas and indicating a possible repetition of such practices. The MQM-P convener denounced the representation of Sindh’s chief minister, alleging a policy of mistreatment towards the citizens of Sindh.
Emphasizing the need for rectification, Siddiqui announced MQM's intention to approach the courts, demanding corrective measures in the constituencies prior to the elections. He strongly criticized the ECP’s conduct over the past 15 years, questioning the continued influence of former ministers in administrative roles.
The former federal minister highlighted perceived injustices, referencing the transformation of the Sindh Secretary into what he termed the "Sindhi Secretariat" and the province being seemingly tailored to suit a single ethnicity.
Siddiqui underscored the integral role of MQM in the vision for Sindh, asserting that the dream of Sindh's progress cannot be actualized without the party's involvement.
CEC extends invitation to MQM-Pakistan for dialogue
Following the MQM’s decisive stand against what it perceives as unjust constituency delineation, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja has extended an invitation to MQM Pakistan for dialogue, seeking to address the party’s expressed grievances regarding the final delimitation of constituencies issued by the electoral watchdog.
Sikandar Sultan Raja has reached out to MQM, inviting them for discussions aimed at resolving the concerns raised by the party regarding the final delimitation of constituencies. The CEC has proposed a meeting in Islamabad on December 4, providing an opportunity for both parties to engage in dialogue and find potential resolutions.
The Commission’s proactive step to invite MQM for negotiations reflects an attempt to address the issues raised by the party before they escalate into a legal dispute.
The proposed meeting in Islamabad signifies a potential avenue for both parties to engage in constructive dialogue and seek common ground regarding the constituency delimitations.