Emphasize adversity should not deter principled leadership
TP Report
PESHAWAR: A special session of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly was convened to deliberate on the issue of drone strikes and their impact on civilian populations, where Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi, delivered a detailed address outlining the provincial government’s position, concerns, and proposed course of action. Opening his remarks, the Chief Minister underscored that adversity should not deter principled leadership, emphasizing that those with conviction and clarity of purpose do not retreat in the face of challenges. He stated that true leadership is tested not in calm conditions but in moments of crisis, and reaffirmed his resolve to steer the province through prevailing difficulties. The Chief Minister noted that the session had been specifically convened to address the ongoing issue of drone strikes, which, he stated, have persisted over the past two decades. Reiterating the long-held position of the party leadership, including Imran Khan, he maintained that military operations and drone strikes are not sustainable solutions to complex security challenges. He asserted that such actions result in significant civilian harm and, rather than eliminating terrorism, contribute to its escalation. Highlighting the human cost, the Chief Minister stressed that what may be termed as “collateral damage” in policy discussions represents, in reality, the loss of innocent lives including children, parents, and family members. He criticized the policymaking process, stating that decisions are often taken in closed rooms without meaningful engagement with affected populations, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa repeatedly bearing the consequences of such policies. He further observed that drone strikes disproportionately impact civilian populations in tribal areas, questioning why such actions are not witnessed in high-security zones or elite residential areas. He described this disparity as unjust and reflective of a disconnect between policymakers and ground realities. The Chief Minister argued that despite over two decades of similar policy approaches, there has been no tangible improvement in terms of peace, development, or stability. He warned that continued reliance on such measures risks perpetuating cycles of violence, as affected families may be driven toward reactionary responses due to loss and grievance. The Chief Minister referred to the legal framework of the Actions in Aid of Civil Power regulation, describing it as a “black law” and reiterated that the provincial government has already taken steps at the cabinet level to withdraw the legislation. He stated that multiple formal communications have been sent requesting the provision of a verified list of the 970 individuals reportedly in custody; however, no such list has been provided to the provincial government to date. He asserted that is a deliberate attempt to push the provincial government into hastily repealing the law without transparency, so that a narrative can later be manufactured accusing the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa of facilitating the release of terrorists. On the legislative front, the Chief Minister informed the House that consultations have been held to explore legal action against drone strikes. However, he noted that constitutional protections limit the ability to directly proceed against those responsible. He stated that the province can legislate on the issue of collateral damage and called for a unified approach across treasury and opposition benches. Emphasizing political unity, the Chief Minister acknowledged that members across party lines, including opposition leadership, share common ground on the need to protect the people of the province. He urged the Speaker to convene a meeting of the relevant security committee to develop a unified and actionable policy framework. He further stressed that security must be universal and equitable, stating that if individuals in high-security institutions and urban centers are protected, then citizens residing in remote and tribal areas equally deserve protection. He reaffirmed his personal commitment to this cause, stating that he is prepared to make any political or personal sacrifice in defense of the province’s interests. Addressing concerns related to governance and institutional respect, the Chief Minister highlighted incidents where elected representatives have faced undue treatment at checkpoints. He emphasized the need to uphold the dignity and authority of democratic institutions and called for reforms to ensure that elected officials are treated in accordance with their constitutional status. Turning to the issue of energy, the Chief Minister raised concerns regarding the supply of natural gas and the continued closure of CNG stations. He stated that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa produces approximately 400 MMCFD of gas, while its consumption stands at around 150 MMCFD, indicating a surplus contribution to the national grid. Citing constitutional provisions, he asserted that provinces have the primary right over their natural resources and should be allowed to meet their own needs before contributing surplus to the federation. He expressed concern over reports suggesting continued restrictions on CNG supply despite local production capacity and announced that the provincial government would engage with stakeholders, including CNG station operators, to address the issue. He warned that if the matter is not resolved through dialogue, further steps would be taken in the interest of the province’s citizens. The Chief Minister also announced the convening of a grand tribal jirga scheduled for Saturday to deliberate further on the issue of drone strikes. He invited members from both treasury and opposition benches, as well as tribal elders, to participate in the consultative process aimed at developing a collective and effective response. The Chief Minister reiterated that all policy decisions must be guided by the public interest, the welfare of the province, and the broader national good. He emphasized faith, resolve, and unity as essential principles in navigating current challenges and reaffirmed his commitment to stand alongside the Assembly in all future decisions.
