Mohsin Naqvi Calls for System Reset, Says New Provinces Should Reflect People’s Choice
ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has called for major structural reforms in Pakistan’s governance system, saying a “system reset” is necessary to address the country’s administrative and political challenges.
Naqvi emphasized the need for the creation of new provinces and administrative units based on the wishes and choices of the people. He argued that greater administrative decentralization could improve governance by allowing local leadership to take greater responsibility for addressing issues at the grassroots level.
The interior minister also described himself as a strong supporter of making Islamabad a full-fledged province. He suggested that restructuring the existing administrative framework could provide a more effective system of governance and give local representatives greater ownership of their respective areas.
Naqvi further stressed that Pakistan’s progress cannot depend on a single individual, government or political party. Referring to political figures such as Zohran Mamdani and Muhammad Sadiq, he said new political personalities will continue to emerge as part of the country’s evolving political landscape.
According to Naqvi, sustainable progress requires institutions and administrative structures that can function effectively regardless of who is in power. He maintained that political and administrative reforms should focus on strengthening governance rather than remaining tied to individual personalities.
His remarks have once again brought the debate over the creation of new provinces and administrative units into focus. Supporters of new provinces have frequently argued that smaller administrative units can improve service delivery, reduce administrative burdens and bring government institutions closer to citizens.
However, any move toward creating new provinces would require broad political consensus and constitutional and administrative changes. The issue has historically remained politically sensitive, with different regions presenting competing demands and proposals.
Naqvi’s call for a governance “reset” therefore represents a broader argument for restructuring Pakistan’s administrative system and empowering local leadership. His proposal to make Islamabad a province also adds another dimension to the ongoing discussion about the country’s federal and provincial structure.
The interior minister’s comments are likely to fuel further debate among political parties, constitutional experts and the public over whether Pakistan needs new provinces and how such changes should be carried out.
