Interior Minister Proposes Referendum on New Administrative Units in Pakistan

LAHORE: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi proposed on Thursday that political parties conduct a referendum to assess public opinion regarding the establishment of new administrative units or provinces in Pakistan, calling it the “solution” to the ongoing debate.

Naqvi, who has stirred significant political controversy in recent months by advocating for the formation of new administrative units, stated that the current governance system has “collapsed” and requires a “reset.” Speaking to reporters at the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in Lahore, he emphasized that differing opinions among political parties are a natural part of the democratic process.

This proposal comes at a time when the demand for new administrative units has gained traction, with various regions seeking greater autonomy and resources. The implications of such a referendum could reshape the political landscape, potentially leading to increased regional representation and addressing long-standing grievances among marginalized communities.

Looking ahead, it remains to be seen how political parties will respond to Naqvi’s suggestion and whether they will agree to participate in a referendum. Discussions on this topic are expected to intensify in the coming weeks as stakeholders assess the feasibility and potential impact of such a significant political move.