PM Shehbaz Defends Kundi Rule

On Thursday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif defended the federal government's decision to impose emergency and governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). During a high-level meeting of the Apex Committee, Shehbaz held the previous provincial administration responsible for undermining counterterrorism measures and enabling the return of terrorist elements.

He asserted that the national security situation necessitated a government response. Shehbaz noted that approximately 5,000 police vacancies existed under the prior administration. He highlighted the delays in implementing Safe City projects, the limited advancements in the Counter Terrorism Department, and deficiencies in police training as areas of concern.

The prime minister claimed the federal government had extended resources to the previous two KP chief ministers to combat terrorism, but contended that these offers were not acted upon. In response, Shehbaz announced the formation of an advisory council aimed at enhancing the situation in the province. Additionally, he ordered a transparent investigation into a school roof collapse tragedy that resulted in the deaths of numerous children, and instructed the KP governor to visit the site.

At the meeting, Governor Kundi emphasized that peace and development were the province's paramount priorities, urging residents not to be forced to prioritize one over the other.