Minister warns of ‘strong’ public response if governor’s rule imposed in KP

PESHAWAR: Provincial Information Minister Shafiullah Jan urged for a united approach to combat terrorism, emphasizing that the issue should not be exploited for political gain. "Terrorism is a national issue, necessitating a collaborative strategy to eradicate it," he asserted during a press conference. Joined by Tariq Saeed Marwat, the chief minister's special assistant for home and tribal affairs, Jan accused federal ministers of disseminating inaccurate data about the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police to "twist the facts."

He alleged that they were attempting to portray the KP government as negligent in its efforts to curb terrorism. Jan emphasized that the federal ministers' comments disparaged the sacrifices of the KP police and aimed to paint the PTI government in a poor light. “If matters of law and order are being used to justify the imposition of governor’s rule in KP, then the conditions in Balochistan should also be scrutinized,” he stated.

Jan cautioned that any such action in KP would elicit a robust public reaction. He reiterated that terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa surfaced after the 9/11 attacks, and that the PTI founder, Imran Khan, had opposed drone strikes in the former FATA region. Jan highlighted that the PTI government focused on fostering peace and development since assuming office in 2013.

He contended that while security improved during Prime Minister Imran Khan's tenure, it deteriorated post his removal. Jan criticized federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar for his remarks regarding KP, urging him to visit Balochistan if he were to assess the situation. The KP government was prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders to devise a comprehensive strategy to eliminate terrorism, Jan said, but questioned the federal government's approach to tackling the issue.

The postponement of the PTI's march in Islamabad was a part of his party's political strategy, he explained, adding that his government would thwart such maneuvers. He reaffirmed his commitment to Pakistan, asserting, "Pakistan is part of our faith." Regarding the procurement of advanced equipment for the provincial police, Jan reported that Rs7.4 billion had been disbursed to federal entities for 57 items, but only 13 had been delivered to the KP police.

He alleged that delays were being intentionally introduced in supplying the remaining equipment. Jan reiterated that the KP government had prioritized enhancing police capabilities and maintaining law and order. The budget for the police had risen to Rs191 billion, with Chief Minister Sohail Afridi allocating an additional Rs35 billion for the police and counter-terrorism department, marking the largest budgetary allocation after health and education.

Jan stressed that KP bore a significant human and financial burden in the fight against terrorism, citing that approximately 80,000 lives were lost over the years. Despite these sacrifices, Jan lamented that KP was still subjected to criticism and mockery instead of receiving its fair share of recognition. He alleged that the federal government's policies exacerbated incidents of terrorism.

Jan stated that the chief minister had repeatedly requested a meeting of the apex committee but had not received a response. Jan reiterated the KP government's commitment to avoiding conflict with state institutions and its dedication to restoring peace and combating terrorism.