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LAHORE, Dec 19 (APP):Federal Minister for Communications and President of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) Abdul Aleem Khan on Friday said the creation of new provinces was a core part of his party’s manifesto, arguing that administrative reorganisation was essential to resolve long-standing public issues.
Speaking as a special guest at a Christmas event, Aleem Khan questioned opposition to the proposal, asking how the formation of new provinces aimed at addressing people’s problems could be objectionable. He said a feasible approach would be to retain existing provincial names while dividing each province into four administrative units — South, West, North and Central — to improve governance and service delivery.
The minister regretted that even after 78 years, many basic issues facing the country remained unresolved. “Instead of focusing on power, we should focus on solving people’s problems, and new provinces are a solution to these challenges,” he said. He also paid tribute to the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) for supporting the proposal and said he would reach out to other political parties to build broader consensus.
Aleem Khan strongly defended the Pakistan Army, stating that the nation owed its freedom and survival to the sacrifices of the armed forces. He said the blood of every martyr was a debt on the nation and paid tribute to the martyrs and their families for laying down their lives for the country.
Calling it shameful to speak against families that had sacrificed their sons and loved ones, he said while politics was necessary, no patriotic citizen would tolerate criticism of the Pakistan Army. He paid glowing tribute to the Pakistani Armed Forces, particularly Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Hafiz Syed Asim Munir, and led slogans in support of the military.
Referring to Quaid-e-Azam Day and Christmas observed on December 25, the federal minister recalled the founder of Pakistan’s vision of an inclusive state. He said Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah had declared Pakistan a country for all citizens, including minorities.
Aleem Khan said respect for churches, like mosques, was obligatory for all Pakistanis. He acknowledged the sacrifices and contributions of minorities, particularly the Christian community, stating that their services in education, health, the judiciary and the armed forces were a source of pride for the nation.