MQM-P welcomes former Sindh governor Ishratul Ibad Khan back into the party

KARACHI: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) on Sunday announced the return of former Sindh governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan to the party, with senior leaders describing the move as part of efforts to strengthen the organisation.

The development was announced at the party’s temporary headquarters in Karachi, where MQM-P Convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and other leaders received Dr Ibad. The party said his return came after a meeting with the MQM-P leadership.

According to the party, Dr Ibad had rejoined after ending his separation from the organisation. MQM-P leaders said his inclusion would help reinforce the party’s political role and organisational structure.

Speaking on the occasion, Siddiqui said the return of senior figures would contribute to the party’s unity and future direction. Other leaders present also welcomed Dr Ibad and termed the development significant for the party.

Dr Ibad served as governor of Sindh for a long period during the tenure of former president Pervez Musharraf. He remained one of the most prominent figures associated with the MQM during that period.

The announcement marks a notable development in MQM-P’s internal politics, as the party has in recent years sought to reorganise itself and bring back former members and office-bearers.

Party leadership receives former governor

MQM-P said the former governor was welcomed by the party leadership at its Karachi office. The meeting was attended by senior leaders, who expressed hope that his return would support the party’s efforts in the coming period.

The party did not indicate any new office or formal responsibility for Dr Ibad in the announcement, but presented his return as an important political development.

Dr Ibad remained governor of Sindh from 2002 to 2016, making him one of the province’s longest-serving governors. He had distanced himself from active party politics in the years after leaving office.

His return comes at a time when MQM-P has been attempting to consolidate its position in urban Sindh. The party leadership said the inclusion of experienced figures would help it move forward in a more organised way.

No further details were immediately shared by the party regarding the scope of Dr Ibad’s role following his return. However, the announcement was presented by MQM-P as part of a broader effort to bring together former members and strengthen party ranks.