Bilawal Bhutto Criticizes Federal Government, Demands Sindh’s Due Rights
KARACHI:Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has strongly condemned the federal government for making unilateral decisions, warning that Sindh will seek legal recourse if deprived of its due rights and fair share of resources.
Speaking at a gathering of business leaders, Bilawal emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in driving economic progress and urged the business community to collaborate with the Sindh government to establish sustainable ventures.
Electricity and Water Disputes
Bilawal criticized the federal government for setting electricity tariffs without consulting the business community or Sindh’s administration. He noted that, much like gas, Sindh had long been denied its rightful water share.
“It’s you and I who suffer because of these policies,” he stated. “They falsely claim that load-shedding has been eliminated, but many areas still endure power outages of up to 18 hours. We no longer trust the federal government to provide us with uninterrupted electricity.”
Highlighting the worsening water crisis, Bilawal warned that global warming posed a severe threat, not just to Pakistan but worldwide. He also criticized Islamabad’s decision to construct six additional canals on the Indus River.
“This will further reduce water availability in downstream areas, including Karachi,” he explained. “Even the complete allocated share under the 1991 Water Accord has not been delivered.”
He asserted that his opposition to the new canals was a fight for Karachi’s rights and urged business leaders, Sindh’s residents, and the nation to demand the implementation of the Water Accord.
Public-Private Partnership and Infrastructure Development
Bilawal praised Sindh’s success in public-private partnerships, highlighting key projects such as the Jhirk-Mulla Katiar Bridge, advancements in healthcare, and the Thar Coal initiative. These projects, he said, have gained international recognition.
“We need to accelerate and expand this partnership model,” he urged, calling for investment in green energy, infrastructure upgrades, and essential services.
Bilawal suggested that if the federal government proceeds with privatizing power distribution companies (DISCOs), Sindh should take over their management under a public-private partnership. He mentioned that work had already started on three projects, with more planned for the next fiscal year.
Renewable Energy and Economic Growth
Discussing Sindh’s vast energy potential, Bilawal emphasized that no other province had as many opportunities for renewable energy. He advocated for solar and wind power parks across Sindh and encouraged private investment in these sectors.
Acknowledging Karachi’s role as Pakistan’s economic hub, he commended the business community for their contributions. He noted improvements in the city’s conditions compared to pre-2008 and recognized the need for further development.
Bilawal highlighted Sindh’s abundant coal reserves, comparing them to Saudi Arabia’s oil wealth. He stressed the importance of modernizing agriculture and invited businesses to collaborate on smart farming initiatives to boost crop yields.
“We want to introduce modern techniques by fostering partnerships between small farmers and businesses,” he stated. “With global partners’ support, our priority is to empower Sindh’s farmers.”
Tax Reforms and Economic Strategy
Bilawal expressed support for a welfare state but stressed the need to increase revenue through effective taxation. He criticized the current tax system, calling it exploitative.
“The way taxes are collected today, we will never succeed. The system has become a form of extortion,” he remarked.
He proposed business-friendly tax reforms that promote economic activity without overburdening businesses. He also noted that Sindh had achieved record tax collection when given control over sales tax on services.
Commitment to Karachi’s Business Community
Addressing concerns of the business community, Bilawal reaffirmed his commitment to their welfare. He announced plans to establish a special cell, including officials from the Anti-Corruption Department and police, to address complaints from Karachi’s traders.
“I have never demanded extortion from you, nor asked for donations,” he assured. “If you have any complaints against me, say so today. Have I ever caused you trouble? If not, why should anyone else misuse my name or my government’s name to harass you?”
Future Plans and Political Vision
Bilawal reiterated his long-term commitment to Karachi and Sindh.
“I am not here for a short game—I am here for the long run. I want us to take control of our province’s future together, and I will not let you down,” he vowed.
He credited the PPP-led Sindh government for eliminating extortion and security threats in Karachi, allowing businesses to operate more freely. However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges and pledged to address them.
The event was attended by prominent business figures, including Idrees Gigi, Atif Ikram, Fawad Anwer, Sultan Alana, and Arif Habib, along with Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, provincial ministers, and other key officials.
