KARACHI, Sept 18: Sindh Democratic Alliance (SDA) chief Imtiaz Shaikh has said that his party will seek provincial autonomy to protect the rights of Sindh.

Speaking at a news conference on Wednesday at the Karachi Press Club, he said grant of provincial autonomy would ensure the integrity and prosperity of the country.

“We will ensure that the rights of the province and its people be protected,” he said.

About the National Finance Commission award (NFC), he said the province should be given its due share according to its contribution to exchequer, and not on the basis of its population.

He urged the authorities to postpone the NFC award and let an elected government to decide the award in the larger interest of the provinces.

Mr Shaikh said the SDA had been formed in the greater interest of the people — to remove misunderstandings and promote brotherhood.

Referring to the election manifesto of his party, he said the alliance was against Thal Canal and would support implementation of the 1991 Water Accord.

Mr Shaikh said provision of jobs to the unemployed youth would be top priority of his party. He was hopeful to lift ban on jobs if came to power.

“We will lift ban on jobs, better utilise Zakat Fund and revive industrial activity in the province,” he said.

The SDA chief said that a youth convention was also being planned to elaborate schemes related to the youth of the country.

About instability in the political set up, he said the SDA would create an environment that could ensure political management.

He said 62 MPAs and 18 MNAs had been fielded by the SDA for the election.—APP