KARACHI: The leadership of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has obtained the resignation of Lyari Town Chairman Nasir Karim Baloch following a high-stakes dispute involving funds worth Rs 1.44 billion. Following party directives, Vice Chairman Iqbal Hingoro has officially taken charge as the Acting Chairman of Lyari Town.
The Root of the Conflict
According to sources within Lyari Town, tensions had been simmering between Nasir Karim Baloch and other members of the Town Council for months. These disgruntled members reportedly enjoyed the full backing of Municipal Commissioner Hammad N.D. Khan, son of senior PPP leader N.D. Khan. The rift initially led to a no-confidence motion against Baloch a few months ago, which was only stalled after the intervention of high-ranking party leadership.
The Rs 1.44 Billion Road-Cutting Fund
The situation reached a breaking point when Lyari Town received Rs 1.44 billion from the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) as compensation for road-cutting. Council members demanded the immediate allocation of these funds for local developmental projects in Lyari. However, the Chairman refused to spend the amount immediately, arguing that the Party Chairman had already announced a separate development package for Lyari.
Party Intervention and Resignation
Council members raised concerns with the PPP leadership, claiming that Baloch’s lack of performance was damaging the party’s reputation in its traditional stronghold. Faced with persistent pressure from the council members, the PPP leadership directed Nasir Karim Baloch to step down. Upon his resignation, Iqbal Hingoro assumed the role, where he was warmly welcomed and congratulated by Municipal Commissioner Hammad N.D. Khan.
