Web Desk: Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said his party will stand with the public on the question of creating new provinces, signalling support for any move that wins broad public consensus.
Speaking to reporters in Islamabad, Bhutto Zardari said the PPP had consistently stated its position on the issue in the context of each province and would support steps endorsed by the people.
“Pakistan Peoples Party will stand with the people, will stand with public opinion, and will support any step taken through consensus and public agreement,” Bhutto Zardari said.
His remarks come amid renewed debate in Pakistan over the creation of smaller administrative units, an issue that has long featured in political and public discourse.
The statement also appears to counter the perception that the PPP is categorically opposed to the creation of new provinces. Instead, Bhutto Zardari framed the party’s position around public opinion and consensus.
Supporters of smaller provinces argue that more compact administrative units could improve governance, service delivery and representation, particularly in geographically large provinces.
At the same time, the creation of new provinces is a politically sensitive issue that would require broad political and constitutional consensus.
Bhutto Zardari’s comments therefore place public approval at the centre of the PPP’s approach, rather than endorsing or rejecting a specific proposed province.
The position also broadly echoes recent remarks by the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations, which has said that any decision on the formation of provinces should reflect the will of the people.
Consequently, Bhutto Zardari’s statement could help clarify the PPP’s position as debate over smaller administrative units continues.
For now, the party has not committed itself to a particular new province. Rather, its chairman has indicated that the PPP would support a proposal if it emerges through public will and consensus.
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