DERA ISMAIL KHAN — Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has described the security situation in his province and neighbouring Balochistan as deeply concerning, declaring that durable peace cannot be achieved unless the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are taken into confidence.
Speaking at a press conference at Al-Amin House, the residence of former chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Afridi condemned the recent blast in Daraz Nanda and expressed solidarity with the victims and their families.
Anyone Who Takes Up Arms Is a Terrorist, Says CM
The chief minister struck a firm note on militancy, stating that anyone who takes up arms against Pakistan is a terrorist. He added that both civilians and security personnel are sacrificing their lives in the national fight against terrorism.
Afridi said his government had allocated Rs35 billion to the police to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and eliminating terrorism, insisting the provincial administration was serious about combating militancy.
Martyr Package for Families of Victims
According to the chief minister, families of those killed in the current wave of terrorism will receive a martyr package as part of the government’s commitment to those bearing the cost of the conflict.
“Lasting peace cannot be established in the province without taking the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa into confidence,” he said.
Concerns Over Balochistan and Closed-Door Decisions
Expressing concern over the security situation in both Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, Afridi said his government does not accept decisions made behind closed doors.
He also alleged that three individuals were contributing to the spread of hatred in the country, without naming them.
Armoured Vehicle Shortage Draws Federal Ire
The chief minister raised concerns over the shortage of armoured vehicles for the province, saying that despite payments being made, the vehicles had not been supplied. He called on the federal government to provide armoured vehicles to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at the earliest, arguing the province was bearing the brunt of the violence.
“Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is carrying the funerals, the province is injured, while the federation is taking the plane,” Afridi said.
- The chief minister condemned the Daraz Nanda blast and voiced solidarity with victims’ families.
- Rs35 billion has been allocated to police to restore peace and counter terrorism.
- Families of those killed in the current wave of terrorism will receive a martyr package.
- Afridi demanded the federal government urgently supply armoured vehicles to the province.
- He alleged three unnamed individuals were fuelling hatred in the country.
