Governor’s rule necessary to restore peace: Muqam

PESHAWAR: Federal Minister Amir Muqam stated on Monday that the governor's rule and emergency measures would lead to a decrease in law and order issues in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as improve the province's development. At a press conference, Muqam harshly criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) party, asserting that despite being in power for thirteen years, they had failed to improve the lives of citizens, and public problems persisted.

He claimed the federal government had provided maximum support to the provincial government and attempted to resolve disputes through dialogue, but chief minister Sohail Afridi refused to cooperate. Muqam stated that the governor's rule was a necessary step imposed by the federal government to restore peace, initiate development projects, and rebuild public confidence, in accordance with the Constitution.

He expressed optimism that all institutions, led by the governor, would collaborate to eliminate terrorism and concentrate on development schemes aimed at enhancing public welfare. Muqam reported that the people had welcomed the governor's rule, distributing sweets in support. He noted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's personal oversight of the province's transformation process and assured that serious efforts would be made to ensure development and improve living conditions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, making them more comparable to those in other developed parts of the country.

Muqam criticized the PTI's protest-oriented politics and noted that the public had rejected that approach, not participating in protests even when former chief minister Sohail Afridi called for demonstrations. He welcomed the peaceful transfer of power following the governor's rule and dubbed the 11-member advisory council an experienced, capable, and committed team that would work for the province's betterment.

Muqam accused former chief minister Afridi of failing to serve the province effectively and not cooperating with the federal government or relevant institutions in the fight against terrorism. He alleged Afridi undermined the PTI's talks with the federal government. Muqam also held meetings with the provincial governor, chief secretary, and inspector general of police, stating that all roadblocks would be removed within a day or two to ensure free movement for the people.

Expressing optimism for the province's future, Muqam said the era of alleged corruption and misappropriation had ended, and future decisions would be made based on merit. When asked about the exclusion of Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam chief Maulana Fazlur Rahman from the government-PTI negotiations, Muqam stated that the JUI-F leader could offer his services or contribute in any way he desired. Former senator Behramand Tangi and PML-N leader Rehmat Salam Khattak were present at the event.