KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has declared his government’s firm opposition to the construction of the Cholistan Canal, stating that the matter is being actively contested in the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC).

According to Chief Minister Sindh, the opposition was highlighted during the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) meeting, where the Sindh government expressed its concerns. Chief Minister Shah revealed that Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro attended the CDWP meeting on September 20 and voiced objections against the canal’s approval. He explained that he had communicated with Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal before the meeting, emphasizing Sindh’s refusal to accept the project. Despite assurances that the canal’s agenda would be postponed, the meeting on October 11 proceeded late in the evening, resulting in the project’s approval despite Sindh’s strong opposition.

Chief Minister Shah stated that the matter would be further contested at ECNEC, and the Sindh government has already raised the issue in the Council of Common Interests (CCI). He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of the Sindh populace.

Addressing other concerns, Chief Minister Shah commented on the increasing number of polio cases, attributing the challenges to the caretaker government’s inability to maintain continuity in eradication efforts. He proposed removing the provision for a caretaker government’s induction for elections from the constitution, suggesting it disrupts policy continuity.

Responding to speculation about constitutional amendments, Shah denied knowledge of any imminent changes, reiterating the Pakistan Peoples Party’s commitment to upholding the country’s rights and constitution. He defended the 26th Constitutional Amendment, indicating the party’s support for measures that protect citizens’ rights.

Chief Minister Shah also referenced historical political events, questioning past decisions that led to the removal of sitting Prime Ministers. He highlighted the Charter of Democracy signed in 2006 by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and Mian Nawaz Sharif, with Chairman Bilawal Bhutto advancing this vision through the 26th Amendment.