CM asks Gandapur to develop amicable relationship with Centre

Murad Ali Shah dismisses GDA’s allegations of rigging in Sindh polls

KARACHI:

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has stressed the importance of establishing an amicable and cooperative relationship with the federal government for effective governance, irrespective of political affiliations.

“President Asif Ali Zardari has underscored the necessity of fostering strong ties with the federal government for the welfare of the province’s populace,” Shah said while speaking to the media after casting his vote in the Senate election at the Sindh Assembly on Thursday.

Such collaboration transcends political boundaries and is essential for the betterment of society, he said. Shah urged Ali Amin Gandapur, the incumbent chief minister of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, to adopt a similar approach for the benefit of the people.

CM Shah also responded to questions about the recent general elections. The Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) had failed to field candidates in all constituencies, he said while citing the example of his own constituency of Sehwan where GDA’s polling agents were absent. He expressed surprise at the GDA’s claims of defeat given the circumstances.

Regarding law and order, the chief minister affirmed that significant improvements have been observed in the province under the elected government. “Efforts are underway to enhance security measures, particularly in combating kidnapping for ransom in the riverine area and street crime in Karachi,” he said, highlighting the government's commitment to ensuring public safety.

In response to queries about the appointment of a new federal finance minister, Shah acknowledged the critical phase the country is undergoing and stressed the importance of appointing a capable individual to address the prevailing financial challenges.

Addressing concerns about the chairman of the Board of Intermediate Karachi, the chief minister, who also holds the portfolio of university & boards, assured that the matter would be resolved in the best interest of the educational board.

Regarding the appointment of the chairman of the Indus River System Authority (IRSA), CM Shah clarified that IRSA operates as a five-member body, with each province and the federal government appointing one member. He noted recent amendments during the caretaker government, leading to the induction of a sixth member, and expressed efforts to address the matter through discussion with the prime minister.