Islamabad: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) has linked its support for the federal budget to two key demands: the restoration of the Sindh governorship to the party and progress on amendments related to Article 140-A of the Constitution, which deals with local government empowerment.

The position was outlined by senior MQM-P leader Farooq Sattar during a conversation with the media, where he emphasized that the party expects answers regarding both issues before deciding its stance on the budget vote.

MQM-P Seeks Clarification on Article 140-A

Farooq Sattar described Article 140-A as an important constitutional provision aimed at strengthening local governments and ensuring the transfer of powers to the grassroots level.

He said MQM-P wants clarity on the government’s position regarding the implementation and amendment of the article, arguing that it directly affects public welfare and local governance.

“Article 140-A is a matter of public interest, and we want a clear response regarding it,” he stated.

Demand for Return of Sindh Governorship

The MQM-P leader also raised the issue of the Sindh governorship, questioning why the party’s previous governor was removed from office.

He argued that the party deserves an explanation and reiterated MQM-P’s demand that the governorship be returned to its nominee.

Farooq Sattar praised the performance of the former MQM-P governor, claiming that significant initiatives were undertaken during his tenure, particularly in the field of information technology and youth development.

According to Sattar, thousands of young people benefited from skills programs that helped them secure employment and earn income through digital opportunities.

Budget Support Linked to Satisfaction on Demands

Sattar indicated that the party’s support for the federal budget would depend on whether its concerns are adequately addressed.

He suggested that MQM-P would need to be satisfied regarding the governorship issue before extending support during the budget voting process.

“If the matter is not resolved, then the party leadership, including Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, will have to decide the future course of action,” he said.

Questions About Internal Party Dynamics

During the discussion, Farooq Sattar was also asked about reports suggesting the existence of different groups within MQM-P, particularly around leaders Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and Mustafa Kamal.

In response, Sattar avoided directly addressing the claim and instead remarked that observers should become more familiar with the party before making such assessments.

Governor Sindh Avoids Comment

Meanwhile, Sindh Governor Nihal Hashmi described his recent meeting with National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq as a routine interaction and declined to comment on MQM-P’s demands regarding the governorship.

His response came amid ongoing political discussions surrounding coalition relations and budget negotiations.

Coalition Talks Continue

Earlier, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, coalition lawmakers, and the Governor of Sindh reportedly met in the Speaker’s Chamber.

According to sources, the meeting focused on the federal budget, concerns raised by allied parties, and various political demands being discussed within the ruling coalition framework.

Importance of Coalition Support

With the federal budget requiring parliamentary approval, support from coalition partners remains important for the government. Political analysts note that smaller allied parties often use budget negotiations as an opportunity to press for policy commitments and address outstanding political concerns.

MQM-P’s demands have therefore become part of broader discussions between coalition partners as the government seeks to secure sufficient support for the passage of the budget.

Looking Ahead

As budget deliberations continue, attention will remain focused on whether negotiations between the government and MQM-P result in a compromise. The outcome could influence both the budget voting process and the future dynamics of coalition politics at the federal level.

For now, MQM-P has signaled that its support is tied to progress on issues it considers central to its political agenda, particularly the Sindh governorship and local government reforms under Article 140-A.