# Khawaja Asif supports 12 provinces

> Defence Minister Khawaja Asif says Pakistan could form 12 provinces if created administratively, not ethnically.
- Title: Khawaja Asif supports 12 provinces · Geo News | Shortify
- Summary: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif says Pakistan could form 12 provinces if created administratively, not ethnically.
- Keywords: pakistan, provinces, defence minister, khawaja asif, administrative units, decentralisation, constitutional amendment, Geo News
- Source: Geo News — https://geo.tv/latest/690273-khawaja-asif-backs-creation-of-new-provinces-says-even-12-could-be-considered
- Published: 2026-11-08T12:18:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: pakistan, provinces, defence minister, khawaja asif, administrative units, decentralisation, constitutional amendment, news
## Khawaja Asif backs new provinces
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif supports creating up to 12 provinces in Pakistan, provided they are formed on administrative lines, not ethnic or political grounds.

> If there is a proposal for 12 provinces, then make it 12, but they should not be created on the basis of language, ethnicity or political interests
## Proposal under discussion
The proposal to create new provinces has been under discussion for two months, with opinions emerging nationwide.
## Administrative focus
Asif argues Pakistan's growing population requires more effective governance through smaller administrative units.
## Power transfer needed
Asif urges transferring administrative powers from provincial capitals to smaller units to improve governance.
## Financial dependency
Current financial resources remain at provincial discretion, with local governments dependent on provincial authorities.
## Constitutional timeline
A nationwide referendum is planned ahead of a possible 28th Constitutional Amendment in early 2027.
## Key takeaway

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif supports creating up to 12 provinces in Pakistan, but insists they must be formed on administrative lines, not ethnic or political grounds.