Having no powers to even lift garbage in Karachi: Mayor Wasim Akhtar

KARACHI: Mayor Karachi Wasim Akhtar says he will make all attempts to minimize corruption in the city government but regrets lack of powers even to lift garbage in the metropolis.

Answering questions of the general public during live interactive session on social media (Facebook and Twitter) pages of the ARY News, Mr. Akhtar said he would approach the Supreme Court of Pakistan to get powers that currently were kept by the provincial government of Sindh.

In this regard, he says it will take a little time “but our home work is complete. We will soon knock the Supreme Court’s door for rights of Karachiites.”

Mayor Karachi Waseem Akhtar Live #AskMayorKarachi https://t.co/m89oiwnXaM

— ARY News (@ARYNEWSOFFICIAL) January 26, 2017

To a question taking exception to mayor for not performing ‘up to expectations’ as yet, Mr. Akhtar said the criticism was uncalled-for in view of lack of powers and resources. “I will admit criticism if I keep all the powers and don’t deliver, but currently I have no powers to effect change.”

He said according to law enforcement agencies, he was facing threats from “former friends”. “I am practicing caution at my end but ultimately it is the responsibility of the LEAs to provide me security.”

He regretted that Sindh government didn’t deliver in last eight years and still keeping the powers.

The city mayor also shared that his family express concern over threats looming around him. “I tell them it’s the part of my job. People have elected me, hence it’s my responsibility to serve them.”

Mayor supports Karachi Kings

Wasim Akhtar said he was backing Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League. He also hinted that people will soon see him as active person ahead of the event.

He also expressed his interest for recreational activities and said the KMC would take initiatives to promote sports activities in the city.