KARACHI, Feb 27 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced a major increase in provincial support for The Kidney Centre, pledged funding for a new cardiac catheterisation (cath) lab, and strongly cautioned against the spread of fake news, while also addressing national security, policing issues and political controversies.
The chief minister was speaking to the media and addressing a ceremony at The Kidney Centre after inaugurating a newly established Intensive Care Unit (ICU), developed with the support of the Sindh government.
The event was attended by Provincial Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho, senior health officials, and the hospital’s management, including Chairperson Friends of the Kidney Centre Marriana Karim, Board Chairman Adnan Afridi, CEO Dr Rashid Jooma, Administrator Dr Saeed Chishty, Dean Dr Asim Ahmed, and Head of Surgery Dr Salman El Khalid.
Addressing the ceremony, the chief minister said the Sindh government takes pride in working with credible non-profit organisations through public-private partnerships. “These are fundamentally government responsibilities, but when sincere and capable partners are available, the outcomes are far better,” he said.
Announcing a significant financial boost, CM Murad Ali Shah said the provincial government would increase its annual grant to The Kidney Centre to Rs500 million from next year, up from the current Rs300 million. He also pledged funding for the establishment of a cath lab at the hospital, saying he would personally return to inaugurate it.
Shah recalled that the Kidney Centre had also received support in the past from Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and Asif Ali Zardari, underscoring its national importance and credibility. “The Sindh government is providing over Rs100 billion in grants to the health sector. Our objective is to ensure that every citizen has access to the best possible healthcare facilities,” he added.
The chief minister praised the Kidney Centre’s 41 years of uninterrupted service and lauded the culture of philanthropy associated with it, noting that even schoolchildren had raised donations for the institution.
He paid special tribute to Marriana Karim for her four decades of tireless fundraising efforts that helped build and sustain the hospital.
Speaking to the media, CM Murad Ali Shah commented on the regional security situation, stating that there had been an attempt from Afghanistan to launch an attack under the cover of darkness, which was effectively thwarted.
“This response is a clear message to anyone casting an evil eye on Pakistan, whether on the eastern or western borders,” he said, adding that the nation had previously demonstrated unity in the face of aggression. “The entire nation stands united against the enemy,” he stressed.
Murad Shah said tensions had persisted for about a week, with intelligence reports pointing to possible terrorist threats, prompting precautionary measures. He added that action regarding Afghan nationals would continue in accordance with national security requirements.
Addressing the recent police action in Umerkot, the chief minister clarified that the operation was carried out under court orders but strongly criticised the conduct of the police. “The manner in which the police acted is unacceptable in any form,” he said, adding that he had personally sought details from the provincial ministers for home and education.
The CM assured that strict action would be taken against the officials involved. “I give my word that the Sindh government will take action against any form of abuse or excess, especially when it involves women,” he said.
Political stance and MQM remarks
Responding to political developments, Murad Shah said, “The Muttahida Qaumi Movement can do whatever it wants, but what was said in that meeting is unacceptable.”
The CM said the Sindh Assembly had adopted a clear and strong position, which had been conveyed to both the President and the Prime Minister. He added that he had also personally informed the prime minister that such remarks were unacceptable to the people of Sindh.
The chief minister rejected what he described as baseless allegations against President Asif Ali Zardari, saying false narratives were being deliberately promoted.
Criticising sections of the media, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah accused some journalists and TV channels of spreading unverified and misleading information. “Sometimes journalists also follow illusions, and then TV channels start repeating the same narrative,” he remarked.
Shah urged media organisations to exercise responsibility, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. “At least mainstream channels are expected not to amplify fake news,” he said, dismissing a report circulated by an Islamabad-based anchor as entirely false.
The CM clarified that there had been no discussion regarding a change of Governor and said his reservations about discussions held at the Governor’s House had already been conveyed to the Prime Minister.
“While the Governor deserves respect, constitutional offices come with defined responsibilities,” he said, expressing hope that the Governor would perform duties strictly in line with the Constitution.
Development and labour issues
Highlighting development work, the chief minister said several major projects were currently underway in Karachi. He also assured that the issue of protesters demanding salaries outside the Karachi Press Club would be resolved, adding that he would send officials to address their concerns.
The chief minister concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare institutions, ensuring public welfare, safeguarding national security, and promoting responsible journalism.