Story perspectives

Pakistan ministers split over new provinces despite decentralization push

9/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Planning minister Ahsan Iqbal called for a debate on creating 12-15 new provinces or 160 empowered districts.
Interior minister Mohsin Naqvi said any new administrative units must have public support.
Defense minister Khawaja Asif urged decentralization and devolution of power to grassroots.
Officials within ruling coalition disagree on timing and method of administrative reform.
Experts warn redrawing boundaries could spark disputes over water, taxation, natural resources and ethnic tensions.

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Story summary

Planning minister Ahsan Iqbal called for a debate on creating 12-15 new provinces or 160 empowered districts.
Interior minister Mohsin Naqvi said any new administrative units must have public support.
Defense minister Khawaja Asif urged decentralization and devolution of power to grassroots.
Officials within ruling coalition disagree on timing and method of administrative reform.
Experts warn redrawing boundaries could spark disputes over water, taxation, natural resources and ethnic tensions.