Defence Minister Khawaja Asif says meaningful reforms should begin with the implementation of the National Action Plan and progress through Parliament and constitutional institutions.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has urged Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to initiate meaningful system reforms by ensuring effective implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) and improving the performance of the Interior Ministry.
Responding to Mohsin Naqvi’s recent remarks about shortcomings in Pakistan’s governance system, Khawaja Asif said he largely agreed with the concerns raised by the interior minister. However, he stressed that lasting reforms must be pursued through constitutional and democratic institutions, including Parliament and the federal cabinet.
In a statement shared on social media, the defence minister said discussions on major national reforms would be more productive if presented before Parliament, which he described as the most appropriate forum for strengthening institutions and introducing sustainable constitutional changes.
Khawaja Asif noted that Mohsin Naqvi holds a key position within the government and should use his authority to translate reform proposals into practical action. He suggested that the process should begin within the Interior Ministry by accelerating implementation of the National Action Plan, which remains Pakistan’s primary counterterrorism and internal security framework.
The defence minister said Pakistan’s current governance system has evolved over decades under the influence of political and personal interests, making institutional strengthening an urgent national priority. He emphasized that reform efforts should move beyond public statements and produce measurable improvements in governance.
He also underscored the importance of discussing critical national matters through constitutional platforms, arguing that decisions made in Parliament and cabinet meetings carry greater legitimacy and are more likely to strengthen democratic institutions.
Referring to the National Action Plan, Khawaja Asif said the military has implemented the points assigned to it through significant sacrifices. However, he maintained that several responsibilities assigned to the Interior Ministry still require stronger implementation and greater progress.
Calling for immediate action, the defence minister urged Mohsin Naqvi to focus on fulfilling the ministry’s existing responsibilities before pursuing broader institutional reforms. He added that sincere efforts to improve governance and strengthen state institutions would receive support not only from the business community but from the wider public.
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