RAWALPINDI: Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has said that any decision regarding the creation of new provinces in Pakistan should be made in accordance with the Constitution and the aspirations of the people, stressing that good governance remains essential for the country’s stability and security.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, the DG ISPR responded to a question about Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s recent remarks regarding the formation of new provinces. He clarified that the minister’s statement represented his personal opinion and was not the military’s official position.
“It was Mohsin Naqvi’s personal opinion, and the military will not comment on it,” Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said.
Good Governance Essential for National Security
The DG ISPR emphasized that good governance is directly linked to Pakistan’s national security and long-term stability.
He noted that all major political parties have already reached consensus on the 14 points of the National Action Plan (NAP), adding that effective governance is necessary to address the country’s growing administrative and developmental challenges.
“Security and safety depend on good governance. National issues cannot be resolved without improving governance,” he said.
Population Growth Requires Administrative Review
Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry pointed out that Pakistan’s population has increased dramatically over the past five decades.
He said the country’s population has grown from around 70 to 80 million in 1972 to approximately 250 million today, while the number of provinces has remained unchanged.
“Our population has increased nearly four times, but we still have the same four provinces. We have to think about this,” he remarked.
He stressed that if existing governance structures are unable to address public issues effectively, reforms should be considered.
Public Opinion Must Guide Any Decision
The DG ISPR reiterated that any administrative changes, including the creation of new provinces, should only take place through constitutional procedures and with public support.
“The opinion of the people should be taken. If people are satisfied with governance, that is fine. If they are not, then decisions should be made according to the Constitution,” he said.
He added that any administrative restructuring should aim solely at improving governance and public service delivery.
Call for Political Leadership to Build Public Awareness
Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry also urged political leaders to play a constructive role in educating the public and avoiding unnecessary confusion on national issues.
He noted that Pakistan’s youth make up the largest segment of the population, making responsible political leadership even more important.
“There is no need to further confuse our people. Political parties should focus on solving problems and improving governance,” he said.
Governance Challenges Persist
The DG ISPR observed that Pakistan’s administrative system has struggled to function effectively over the past 13 to 14 years.
He encouraged political parties to seek solutions through democratic processes and public consultation.
“The beauty of political parties is that they find solutions to problems. Take the opinion of the people and see what they say,” he concluded.
