New provinces debate could take eight months

Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah Khan has said the debate over creating new provinces is still at an initial stage and could take six to eight months to move through parliament and its committees.

Speaking to journalists in Lahore, the PML-N leader said his party had not initiated any formal proposal to divide existing provinces. He added that if a proposal was brought before parliament, all political parties and lawmakers would have the opportunity to present their views.

Rana Sanaullah said the matter could subsequently be referred to a parliamentary or standing committee for detailed examination. He noted that the discussion could also lead to proposals for creating new administrative units or renewed debate over local government elections.

He questioned the decision to raise the issue at an economic forum, arguing that major constitutional and political changes should be debated through the appropriate parliamentary process.

On the issue of Bahawalpur, Rana Sanaullah said PML-N leaders in Punjab had differing views. Some supported a separate Bahawalpur province, while others preferred the region to remain administratively connected with Lahore. He also said the Pakistan Peoples Party had gained political advantage from the issue by developing strong emotional support among its workers.

Commenting on the controversial canal project, he said President Asif Ali Zardari had initially supported its construction, while the PPP later opposed it publicly, eventually contributing to the project being put on hold.

Rana Sanaullah also addressed reports of indirect contacts with PTI founder Imran Khan, saying that back-channel communication could take place but would come with political consequences for those involved.

Responding to questions about differences involving the federal interior minister, he said relevant ministers could explain their positions before the cabinet or Senate. He also stressed that not every matter discussed within the government should be made public.