Mohsin Naqvi’s Remarks Reflect His Personal Opinion; Pakistan Needs Better Governance, Says DG ISPR

RAWALPINDI: Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has described Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s remarks on the creation of new provinces as his personal opinion, while emphasizing that effective governance is essential to addressing Pakistan’s security and governance challenges.

Speaking during a press briefing, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry declined to comment directly on Mohsin Naqvi’s recent statement regarding new administrative units, saying that the interior minister is entitled to express his views as a cabinet member and parliamentarian.

He stressed that good governance is a fundamental right of the people and is indispensable for ensuring peace, stability, and sustainable development in the country.

The DG ISPR stated that Pakistan’s security challenges cannot be resolved without effective governance. He added that the armed forces believe lasting peace and national stability depend on strong institutions and efficient administration.

Referring to the National Action Plan (NAP), he noted that all political parties had endorsed its 14-point framework, which serves as the country’s national strategy against terrorism. He said the successful implementation of the plan also depends on improved governance and continuous practical reforms.

Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry further remarked that if an administrative reset is required, it should be considered in accordance with the Constitution, while modern technology should also be utilized to improve governance. He emphasized that the government operates under the Constitution and respects the will of the people.

Highlighting demographic changes, he pointed out that Pakistan’s population has increased significantly—from around 70 to 80 million in 1972 to nearly 250 million today—while the administrative structure has largely remained unchanged. “We need to think seriously about this reality,” he said.

The DG ISPR also stressed that every issue cannot be addressed by deploying the military or police. “Not every problem can be solved through force. Political and economic systems must resolve their own challenges,” he remarked.

Responding to another question, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry strongly defended the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces, saying remarks undermining martyrs were incomprehensible and only served to please India. He stated that soldiers wear the uniform with the resolve to sacrifice their present for the nation’s future, adding that martyrdom remains the backbone of the Pakistan Army.