***
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal delivered a powerful, wide-ranging press conference in Karachi, centering his remarks on the economic necessity of Pakistan’s largest city and fiercely defending his personal integrity against allegations of corruption.
Minister Kamal asserted that he holds the health ministry with detached professionalism and complete integrity, vehemently challenging detractors: “I keep the ministry at the tip of my shoe [with professional detachment]. Even my enemies cannot accuse me of profiteering.” He emphasized that “money is not in our DNA,” stating that his party’s track record, particularly during his tenure as Mayor, proves their commitment to delivery.
### Karachi: The Economic Engine
Kamal focused heavily on Karachi’s strategic importance, arguing that fixing the city is synonymous with stabilizing the nation.
“Karachi is the milk-giving cow; you must feed it fodder,” he stated, proposing that the metropolis is the only viable solution to Pakistan’s current financial woes. “The IMF cannot pull you out of the economic crisis—Karachi can.” He noted that over 50% of the nation’s total exports originate from Karachi, underscoring the undeniable fact that “when Karachi runs, Pakistan runs.”
The Minister lamented the city’s drastic decline, recalling that during his mayoral era, Karachi was listed among the 12 fastest-developing cities globally. Today, he claimed, it is one of the “worst places to live.”
### Governance Failure and the Water Crisis
Kamal highlighted the severe infrastructure and governance deficit, particularly the debilitating water crisis. He stated that 90% of Karachi’s population lacks access to clean drinking water, forcing them to purchase water that is effectively stolen from the city’s own distribution lines.
“If there is no water in people’s homes, how does a tanker appear within 35 minutes?” he questioned, criticizing the powerful tanker mafia run by “big people,” indicating systemic corruption within the supply chain.
Addressing institutional dysfunction, Minister Kamal stressed the need for comprehensive systemic reform rooted in the national Constitution. He described Pakistan’s current local government system as a “fraud” when compared to the efficient models used in developed countries. He noted that while provincial autonomy is crucial, it must extend beyond the Chief Minister to empower the common union councilor. He further criticized the fiscal structure, pointing out that despite Sindh receiving over Rs. 20 trillion in the last 17 years, there is no effective legal mechanism to ensure funds flow from the province down to the district level.
### Political Stance and Security
Kamal defended his party’s unique political journey, highlighting that they were the only political entity in the country to have dismissed their own long-standing leadership. When comparing his party to others, he stated, “I am not saying we are the best people, but among all the bad options, we are the least bad.”
On security matters, the Federal Minister stated that tangible evidence exists confirming India’s involvement in terrorism within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
***
### National Roundup
In related national developments:
* **Diplomacy and Economy:** President Asif Ali Zardari met with Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Ireland, Maryam Madiha Aftab, stressing the need to enhance economic partnership between the two nations. Separately, the new UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Salem Mohammed Alzaabi, met with Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori to discuss bilateral ties and investment opportunities.
* **Law and Order:** Zafar Hijazi was sworn in as the Federal Tax Ombudsman by President Zardari in Islamabad. All 14 passengers who were kidnapped from a bus traveling from Sadiqabad to Quetta were safely recovered. In Karachi, security arrangements were reviewed ahead of the Christmas celebrations. A railway track near Humayun, Shikarpur, was damaged by an explosion.
* **Political Developments:** Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Aaeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP) delegations held meetings with leadership from Jamaat-e-Islami and the Qaumi Watan Party (QWP). The Sindh Assembly introduced a resolution calling for the modernization of the fire brigade system and another resolution paying tribute to the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and Biharis during the 1971 East Pakistan tragedy.
* **Provincial Matters:** Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi visited Peshawar Central Jail and announced a two-month special remission for prisoners. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti warned that the drought situation in the province is worsening and requires comprehensive planning.
* **Human Rights and International News:** The Human Rights Council of Pakistan (HRCP) reacted strongly to an incident where Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar reportedly pulled the veil off a Muslim woman doctor. The father of the civilian hero who overpowered a terrorist during a recent attack in Australia, Muhammad Fateh, stated that his son’s bravery saved dozens of innocent lives.
* **Miscellaneous:** DSP Usman Haider was suspended following his arrest on charges related to the alleged murder of his wife and daughter. The death of veteran politician Mian Manzoor Ahmed Wattoo was confirmed by his family.
