Benazir couldn’t have been PM in 1988 had MQM not supported her: Khalid Maqbool

HYDERABAD: MQM-Pakistan Chairman Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, while addressing a ceremony in memory of the martyrs of Pakka Qila, said on Sunday that 34 years ago, the same Pakka Qala was besieged like an enemy army. Several dead bodies were picked up in the aftermath of an operation.

He said that the massacre of September 30 was carried out because the first election was coming after the rise of MQM and its complete success in local bodies elections. This day is a big question mark on the justice system of the country. He said the incident of September 30 is still going on today, raising questions about unity, strength and honour within Pakistan. This day is a testimony that MQM and Muhajirs have sacrificed more than their share to unite Sindh. It was the same PPP that gave the political stamp for the partition of East Pakistan as soon as it got the chance, he added.

Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui said that Benazir Bhutto could never become the Prime Minister without MQM support. Despite concerns, MQM members voted for her to become the prime minister in 1988. But in return, they besieged the area and targeted the local people. He said that Muhajirs’ mothers who had come out with the message of peace with Quran on their hands faced bullets. Now, Muhajirs have sacrificed their part to keep Sindh united and to establish peace. The entire burden of the coming time will fall on the shoulders of PPP

He said nations do not forget incidences 26 and 27 May. Can the martyrdom of Benazir on December 27 be forgotten? He said that Benazir’s martyrdom took place in Rawalpindi while Hyderabad, and Karachi were burnt in return.

Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui said that 97 per cent of Sindh’s budget was given by Karachi. On the one hand, there are those who give 100 per cent of Sindh’s budget. On the other hand, there are those who use it. How will the country run?