MQM-P Remains Connected With People Through Grassroots Network: Syed Afaq Jamal
ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Sep, 2026) Senior leader of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) Afaq Jamal has said that the party continues to maintain a strong grassroots network in Karachi and remains closely connected with people at the town, sector, and local levels despite political challenges and changing circumstances.
Talking to APP in an interview, he stated that the MQM had historically developed a political structure that maintained close contact with ordinary citizens and remained responsive to their day-to-day problems.
Recalling his political association with the party, Afaq Jamal shared that he had been associated with the MQM since 1984 and witnessed its political evolution and changing role in Pakistan's political landscape. He expressed that the existing political system has failed to adequately address fundamental issues like employment, governance, and representation, adding that the MQM emerged in response to people's grievances who felt deprived of opportunities and political representation.
Jamal asserted that even during periods when the MQM boycotted elections for the National and Provincial Assemblies, its workers remained active in their respective sectors and localities, actively listening to people’s problems and maintaining direct contact with them. He further stated, "Even today, there is hardly any political party with such an extensive grassroots network. Our presence exists at the town level, and people continue to approach our workers with their concerns."
He emphasized that MQM-P has evolved into a political platform representing people from diverse ethnic and regional backgrounds rather than confining itself to a specific community. "The MQM-P today recognizes Punjabis as Punjabis, Pakhtuns as Pakhtuns, Sindhis as Sindhis, and people from Mianwali and Hazara as belonging to their respective communities. All these people are part of the party, and many hold responsibilities," he said.
He stressed that the party's political identity is now rooted in Pakistan's constitutional framework and the inclusion of people from different communities and regions.
Discussing the country’s political landscape, Afaq Jamal claimed that historically, MQM played an essential role in forming federal governments. He stated that successive political governments sought the MQM's support due to its parliamentary strength and political influence, adding that the party had been a part of several major political developments in Pakistan.
Referring to Karachi, he highlighted the city’s ongoing challenges related to water supply, sanitation, roads, and other civic infrastructure. He opposed calls for making Karachi a separate province, arguing that discussions about provincial status should be deferred until these critical issues are addressed.