PM Nawaz seeks Sindh's undertaking on end of power shortages before release of funds

CM Murad says issue of extending Rangers’ powers has been resolved

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has sought an undertaking from the Sindh government that it will end power shortages by 2018 before the federal government releases funds for different projects.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah met Nawaz Sharif on Friday for the first time since taking charge amid the controversy surrounding the extension of Rangers’ powers in the province.



Speaking to the media at Sindh House, CM Murad said the basic aim of the meeting was to discuss several issues of the province and to inquire about PM’S health.

“I requested the PM to expedite the release of funds for solar and energy wind projects in Sindh and he asked me to give an undertaking,” he said, adding that he would soon give the undertaking that the province would end the electricity crisis by 2018. The federal government will then release the funds required to finish the energy projects in the province.

The Sindh CM also clarified that the issue of Rangers’ policing powers had been settled.

Rangers, he said, have been given special powers in Karachi for 90 days under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997 while the force was empowered under Article 147 of the Constitution for deputation across the whole province.



On issues with the MQM, CM Murad said all legal demands of the MQM could be addressed but criminal elements in Karachi would not be tolerated at any cost — irrespective of party affiliation.

He said the PPP leadership had entrusted him with the province and his top priority was to serve the public. “I will not speak my actions will speak and I will try my best to resolve the issues,” he added.

A statement issued by the PM Office said the leaders discussed various matters and issues related to Sindh, especially the law and order situation in Karachi.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 6^th, 2016.