Saad Rafique Calls for Nationwide Consensus on New Provincial Proposals

LAHORE: PML-N stalwart and former federal minister Khawaja Saad Rafique urged a united national approach to the debate on creating new provinces. He expressed personal support for smaller provinces but rejected the idea of dividing only Punjab while ignoring similar demands elsewhere.

Speaking at a ceremony in Lahore, Rafique emphasized that the discussion should follow constitutional guidelines and avoid deepening existing political and provincial rifts.

“Targeting Punjab first and leaving other provinces to decide later is unacceptable,” he said, referring to recent PPP statements that new provinces should begin in Punjab.

“If Pakistan proceeds with smaller federating units, all provinces must be treated equitably,” Rafique added.

Drawing attention to the constitutional process for establishing new provinces, he warned against undermining or dissolving provincial assemblies, noting that Pakistan already faces significant internal fissures.

Rafique also highlighted the need for constitutional safeguards for local governments across the country, arguing that empowered local bodies could resolve many grassroots issues.

“Local government institutions must be constitutionally protected, and the cycle of repeated dissolutions must end,” he said, adding that strengthening municipal systems would reduce public grievances and improve governance.

The PML-N leader urged political parties to pursue reconciliation rather than confrontation, stressing the importance of lowering Pakistan’s political temperature amid mounting security and economic challenges.

Encouraging dialogue among constitutional political forces, he stated that those who uphold the constitution should engage with each other, but that no negotiations are possible with militants involved in terrorism.

Rafique cited the ongoing security situation, noting a train attack earlier that day and continued conflict with Tehreek‑i‑Taliban Pakistan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

“Every day we carry coffins. Political parties must unite on national issues,” he said, proposing fresh charters of democracy and of the economy for political stakeholders.

He called for dialogue between major parties—including PTI, PML‑N, and PPP—asserting that political isolation is not a solution.

Rafique criticized past undemocratic interventions, referencing government overthrows and the “dark period” of military rule.

Touching on regional tensions, he stated efforts to pit Iran and Arab states against each other served Zionist interests but claimed Pakistan had engaged diplomatically with both sides.

He praised Iran’s resilience, noting the nation’s unity and determination in adversity.

Rafique warned that had the Iranian regime collapsed, “a new Israel would have emerged between Iran and Pakistan,” underscoring the importance of regional stability for Pakistan’s security.

He suggested Pakistan could benefit economically if international sanctions on Iran were lifted and commended Saudi leadership for its restraint during recent tensions.

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