Sindh’s Minister for Local Government, Saeed Ghani, has officially launched an extensive and vibrant 14-day celebration campaign titled “Marka‑e‑Haq Independence Celebrations”, aimed at commemorating Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day with unprecedented fervor across the province. The campaign will run from 1st to 14th August, transforming the urban and rural landscape of Sindh into a hub of patriotism, cultural pride, and community engagement.

In a high-level meeting held on Thursday with chairmen of all 13 PPP-governed towns in Karachi, Saeed Ghani unveiled the details of the celebration plan, instructing local leaders to begin preparations immediately and ensure full participation of residents in what is expected to be one of the grandest independence celebrations in the province’s history.

Provincial Unity Through Local Participation

Ghani emphasized that the celebrations would not be limited to urban centers but would span every district, town, and union council in Sindh. The aim is to build a sense of unity, national pride, and cultural revival at the grassroots level. The Local Government Department, alongside other provincial departments, will coordinate to deliver a well-rounded, inclusive set of events and activities.

“The time has come for Sindh to lead from the front in celebrating Pakistan’s independence,” said Ghani. “Through Marka‑e‑Haq, we’re not just celebrating a date—we’re celebrating our national resolve, our heroes, and the collective spirit of the people of Sindh.”

Citywide Decorations and Flag Campaigns

As part of the Marka‑e‑Haq campaign, towns and union councils have been instructed to decorate all roads, streets, government buildings, markets, and neighborhoods with green-and-white national flags, buntings, and colorful lights.

Ghani called for active engagement with local business communities, asking them to collaborate in decorating commercial centers and bazaars. Special attention will be given to rickshaws, taxis, and private vehicles, which will be adorned with flags and stickers to spread the festive spirit throughout Karachi and beyond.

Additionally, Pakistani flags will be distributed among the general public to encourage widespread participation. Town chairmen have been directed to ensure that offices and residences of elected representatives are decorated in accordance with the theme of Marka‑e‑Haq.

Special Budgets and Corporate Sponsorships

Understanding the scope of the celebrations, the Local Government Minister allowed town administrations to allocate special budgets for Independence Day activities, while ensuring that ongoing development projects remain uninterrupted. He also advised leveraging corporate partnerships for sponsoring flags, lighting equipment, sound systems, and other materials required for public events.

This approach, he stated, would ensure financial sustainability and private-sector inclusion in what he termed a “celebration for all Pakistanis, not just government-led.”

Tributes to National Heroes and Martyrs

A key highlight of the Marka‑e‑Haq celebrations will be tributes to Pakistan’s national heroes and martyrs. A series of sports tournaments and cultural competitions will be organized under the theme “Marka‑e‑Haq Independence Tournament”, featuring cricket, football, hockey, volleyball, kabaddi, and traditional wrestling (Malakhra).

Each event will be dedicated to iconic national figures, including Quaid‑e‑Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Iqbal, Liaquat Ali Khan, and Fatima Jinnah. Tributes will also be paid to the martyrs of the Pakistan Army, Rangers, and police, with planned visits to their graves and meetings with their families.

“This is not just about celebration—it’s about remembrance,” said Ghani. “It’s about recognizing the sacrifices that have built this nation.”

Mass Public Engagement and Social Programs

To further amplify community involvement, all towns will be required to host:

• Blood donation drives
• Free medical and health camps
• Cultural storytelling and poetry sessions
• Painting and essay competitions for students
• Tree plantation drives

The goal is to link national pride with social responsibility, turning Independence Day into a platform for positive action. Saeed Ghani reiterated that every segment of society—youth, elders, businesspersons, women, and students—should be actively involved in the Marka‑e‑Haq activities.

Competitions and Awards

In an innovative move to boost public enthusiasm, Ghani announced that towns will host competitions to recognize:

• Best-decorated houses
• Best-decorated markets and shops
• Most patriotic vehicle (rickshaw, taxi, bus)

Winners will receive trophies, certificates, and gift hampers sponsored by local businesses and government departments.

Grand Concerts and Cultural Events

A series of high-profile cultural events will culminate in grand concerts on 13th and 14th August at Karachi’s National Stadium, expected to feature top Pakistani musicians, folk performers, and youth artists. Similar cultural events will take place in Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Mirpurkhas, and Nawabshah, showcasing the diversity and unity of Sindh.

Flag Hoisting Ceremonies Across Sindh

On 14th August, flag-hoisting ceremonies will be held in all districts and towns of Sindh, featuring parades, public speeches, national anthems, and special prayers for Pakistan’s progress.

Ghani called upon educational institutions, trade unions, civil society, and religious organizations to join hands in making these ceremonies grand and meaningful.

Conclusion

Minister Saeed Ghani’s announcement of the Marka‑e‑Haq Independence Celebrations marks a transformative approach to national festivities in Sindh. By blending traditional pride with modern community engagement, the province aims to set a new standard for Independence Day celebrations across Pakistan.

With a combination of sports, culture, patriotism, and social service, this year’s celebrations promise not only entertainment but also education, unity, and empowerment — a true tribute to the spirit of independence.