Paper short abstract:

The paper will analyze the political situation in Karachi with special attention to the party structure in the city and the competing interests of the main parties. The role of the MQM will be explored and conclusions about the political system of Pakistan shall be put forward for discussion.

Paper long abstract:

Karachi with an estimated population of 18 million people is not only the economic hub of Pakistan; it is also an important political center of the country. It is sometimes called a 'small Pakistan' with people from all ethnic, religious and social backgrounds living here together. All major political parties have a presence and a stake in being present in Karachi which has often produced severe strains and outbreaks of violence. At several times political unrest in Karachi has threatened the stability of the Pakistani state and endangered social peace. The paper will analyze the political situation in Karachi with special attention to the party structure in the city and the competing interests of the main parties together with their ethnic, religious and social backgrounds. The role of the MQM as one of the major players will be explored and conclusions about the current political system of Pakistan shall be put forward for discussion.