TP Report
ISLAMABAD: Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Muhammad Sohail Afridi, while speaking to media following his participation in a high-level meeting at Aiwan-e-Sadr, Islamabad, stated that the meeting was convened in the context of evolving national and international crises, and that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa participated in the broader national interest.
He noted that the deliberations covered a range of critical issues, with particular focus on the petroleum supply situation and the prevailing regional dynamics.
The Chief Minister underscored that the position of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains unequivocal: any decision that undermines public welfare or runs counter to the interests of the people will neither be endorsed nor supported.
Reflecting on recent history, he highlighted that during the COVID-19 pandemic and the United States’ withdrawal from Afghanistan, former Prime Minister Imran Khan demonstrated statesmanship that helped shield Pakistan from adverse spillover effects.
Commenting on the current environment, the Chief Minister cautioned against policy decisions that could disrupt economic activity, emphasizing that economic stability is intrinsically linked to national stability.
He further stressed that, amid rising regional tensions, Pakistan must play a proactive role grounded in peace, diplomacy, and dialogue.
He added that the Muslim world continues to look towards Pakistan during times of crisis, necessitating a more effective and revitalized role for the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
On fiscal matters, the Chief Minister raised serious concerns regarding the denial of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s due share under the National Finance Commission, particularly with respect to the merged districts. He stated that approximately PKR 1,375 billion remains outstanding against the Federal government, and clarified that this allocation has, over the past seven years, been distributed among other provinces.
He further asserted that the continuation of the 7th NFC Award beyond 2018 lacks constitutional validity, a position that was formally conveyed during the meeting.
He termed the diversion of resources meant for the tribal districts as a clear violation of constitutional provisions and called for accountability of those responsible.
Additionally, he noted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s rightful share in Net Hydel Profit was also placed before the Federal government. Responding to a query, the Chief Minister stated that any demand for additional resources from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa must be preceded by the provision of its due NFC share, particularly given that the province remains on the front line in the fight against terrorism and continues to commit its own resources toward counterterrorism efforts despite the fact that terrorism is a national problem.
He further highlighted that during recent flood emergencies, the provincial government did not seek federal assistance and instead mobilized its own resources to support affected populations.
He added that through flagship initiatives such as the Sehat Card and Ramadan relief package, the provincial government has delivered over Rs 100 billion in public relief and remains committed to expanding these efforts.
He reiterated that while the provincial government remains open to supporting any policy that delivers tangible benefits to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan, it will firmly oppose measures that impose undue burdens on citizens.
On broader governance, the Chief Minister emphasized that public revenues collected by the Federal government are a trust of the people and must be expended for their welfare, whether through federal or provincial channels.
He called for austerity measures to begin with elected representatives and extend across all state institutions, noting that these entities are sustained through taxpayers’ money. Regarding the possibility of a lockdown, he clarified that no final decision has yet been taken and that the matter will be considered by a designated committee, after which a clearer policy direction will emerge.
In response to another question, the Chief Minister expressed concern over restrictions preventing his meeting with party leader Imran Khan and delays in the scheduling of related court cases.
He stated that the party seeks due process and justice, asserting that once justice is served, Imran Khan will be released and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will secure its rightful entitlements.
