'Problems are not solved by Iftar and Sehri, but by working,' says mayor Karachi

Express Tribune

25-03-2025

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The war of words between Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori and Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab continues as the latter made a statement that issues facing the city cannot be solved simply through gestures like 'Iftar and Sehri', but only through consistent and practical work.
Speaking to the media, Wahab, belonging to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), emphasised the importance of taking concrete steps rather than engaging in propaganda.
Wahab said that the PPP is committed to addressing the problems of the public regardless of political affiliation.
He also took a moment to offer prayers for protection from those he referred to as "adversaries" and expressed hopes that the holy month of Ramadan would bring blessings to the city and its people.
Further defending the PPP's approach, Wahab praised the Governor of Sindh, describing him as both a close friend and a benefactor of the city.
He revealed that, on the Governor's suggestion, he had recently written a letter to the federal government requesting funds to support development efforts in Karachi.
In particular, Wahab reiterated his request for the release of Rs100 billion, a sum he claimed he has been seeking for the past eight days.
He called on federal government officials, including Governor Kamran Tessori, to ensure that these funds are made available, reiterating that, if received, he would ensure full accountability and transparency in their use.
Wahab concluded by pointing out that while it is easy to make promises and discuss issues, actual work is far more challenging.
He highlighted one of the city's critical needs – the construction of a Northern Bypass – which he argued is essential to resolving Karachi's worsening traffic congestion.
Sindh Governor responds to Karachi Mayor
Earlier Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori had responded to the statement made by Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, asserting that his focus during Ramadan is entirely on serving the public, particularly during the times of Sehri and Iftar.
In his remarks, Tessori stressed that his dedication to community service during the holy month of Ramadan leaves him with no time for anything else, particularly until after Sehri.
Sindh Governor shared that he had the privilege of hosting Iftar for the Consuls General of Saudi Arabia, Iran, Oman, Turkiye, Malaysia, Russia, and Bangladesh, and also had the honour of offering Iftar to 10,000 individuals at the Governor House.
He expressed that while serving the public, he also gains spiritual merit, highlighting that he provides daily gifts such as residential plots, Umrah tickets, motorcycles, and phones, in addition to distributing Sehri to various locations.
Tessori also responded to critics, advising them to focus on making improvements rather than harbouring jealousy over the love and support he has received from the people.
He pointed out that this Ramadan, he had demonstrated his commitment to all citizens, with people from all backgrounds—whether Muhajirs, Sindhis, Punjabis, Baloch, or Pashtuns—considering him a brother and a son.
He concluded by encouraging others to win hearts through service, emphasising that this is the true measure of success, rather than being envious of popular support.