Federal Minister and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) Chairman Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui has said Pakistan’s rapidly growing population has made the creation of new provinces increasingly necessary, arguing that the existing administrative structure can no longer adequately serve the country’s expanding population.
Siddiqui said Pakistan also needs a stronger third tier of government to ensure that the benefits of democracy and public services reach ordinary citizens. His remarks have added fresh momentum to an increasingly prominent national debate over restructuring the country’s administrative system.
The MQM-P leader has called for broader political discussions on the creation of new provinces and administrative units, maintaining that governance problems cannot be effectively addressed without bringing government closer to the people.
The debate has gained significant attention in recent months, with several political leaders supporting additional provinces on administrative and governance grounds. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has also called for new administrative units, arguing that Pakistan’s existing governance system requires a major reset.
Supporters of the proposal say smaller provinces could improve administrative efficiency, strengthen political representation and make public services more accessible. Proponents have particularly highlighted the rapid growth of major cities and increasing pressure on provincial governments.
Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party President Abdul Aleem Khan has similarly argued that population growth in Punjab and Sindh has made additional provinces an urgent requirement. He has supported proposals for South Punjab, Bahawalpur and Hazara provinces, among other administrative units.
However, opposition remains strong in some regions. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has said the Sindh Assembly has repeatedly opposed the creation of a new province in the province, while emphasizing that the issue can still be debated democratically.
Any creation of a new province would require constitutional changes and broad political agreement. The growing debate therefore presents both an opportunity for administrative reform and a major political challenge for Pakistan’s leadership.