In a surprising turn of events, Karachi’s political landscape takes a historic turn as the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) and Awami National Party (ANP) join forces for the upcoming elections in 20This unprecedented alliance aims to bridge the divide between different ethnic groups in the city and bring about peace and development. With Karachi offering a significant number of seats in the National Assembly and Sindh Assembly, this unexpected partnership could have a major impact on the political dynamics of the region.
In a surprising turn of events, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) has announced its unconditional support to the Awami National Party (ANP) Sindh chapter president, Shahi Sayed, for the upcoming elections in Karachi. This move is quite unprecedented considering the history of violence and divisions between different ethnic groups in the city.
Mustafa Kamal, the MQM-P Senior Deputy Convener, visited Sayed’s residence to make this announcement. During his visit, Kamal emphasized the importance of unity between Mohajirs and Pakhtuns. He promised to work towards peace and development in Karachi, vowing to put an end to riots and violence in the city.
Sayed expressed his gratitude for the partnership and called on ANP supporters and workers to stand by MQM-P when needed. This alliance is significant as Karachi is a multi-ethnic city and offers a significant number of National Assembly and Sindh Assembly seats in the upcoming elections.
However, the political landscape in Sindh is further complicated by the challenge posed by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), led by Maulana Fazlur Rehman, to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in upper Sindh. This adds to the political dynamics in Karachi.
Adding to the complexity, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), MQM-P, JUI-F, and Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) have reached a seat adjustment deal in the province. All these factors contribute to a dynamic political environment in Karachi.
It’s worth noting that the city has witnessed deadly clashes between the PPP and the MQM-P in the past, with the MQM-P accusing the PPP of trying to snatch the mandate using force.
Moving on to more details about the alliance, the ANP has announced its unconditional support for MQM-P candidates in five constituencies of Karachi South for the General Elections 2024. As part of this support, the ANP has withdrawn its candidates from NA-240, NA-241, PS-108, PS-109, and PS-110, and will now support the MQM-P candidates in these constituencies.
To discuss this alliance, a delegation from the MQM-P, including Dr. Arshad Vohra, Dilawar Khan, and Iftikhar Qaim Khani, called on ANP Sindh leaders. ANP Sindh President Shahi Syed approved the decision to support the MQM-P candidates.
As a reciprocal gesture, the MQM-P has also announced its support for ANP Sindh President Shahi Syed’s candidate on PS-88 Karachi in the upcoming polls.
During a joint press conference held by the ANP and MQM-P, both parties highlighted the historical significance of this step in provincial and central politics. They expressed their commitment to solving the problems of the provincial capital.
This unexpected alliance between the MQM-P and ANP has certainly shaken up the political scenario in Karachi. With the upcoming elections just around the corner, it remains to be seen how this partnership will influence the outcome and the future of the city.