MQM-Pakistan leader and Federal Health Minister, Mustafa Kamal, described the recent Gul Plaza tragedy in Karachi as extremely tragic, saying valuable human lives were lost, and the grief is shared by the entire city.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, he criticised the provincial government, noting that the Pakistan Peoples Party has ruled Sindh for 18 years, yet Karachi remains deprived of basic facilities and security.

Kamal questioned the state’s role in protecting citizens, highlighting that Karachi’s residents continue to face repeated tragedies and look to the government for justice.

He recalled the city’s history of violence, including killings based on ethnicity, language, and sect.

He rejected the notion that current problems should be blamed on a single party or group.

Kamal argued that unsafe buildings and infrastructure cannot solely be attributed to past governments.

He also claimed that those speaking out about Karachi’s issues face blackmail and pressure using old allegations.

The MQM-P leader demanded that Karachi be placed under federal control and recognised as Pakistan’s economic capital.

He criticised the 18th Amendment, saying it has caused more problems than benefits and that powers granted under it are not being used for public welfare.

Kamal further highlighted electricity, water, and gas shortages, ineffective quota systems, and a lack of basic facilities for Karachi’s youth.

He called for an end to “democratic terrorism” and emphasised the need for fair and special treatment for Karachi, as it is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy.