PESHAWAR — Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has declared the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Act 2026, recently approved by the provincial cabinet, unconstitutional, vowing to raise formal objections once the legislation reaches him for approval.
Speaking to reporters, Kundi said he would not endorse the bill in its present form and would exercise his constitutional authority to reject it. He stressed that neither the governor nor the chief minister could take any step that runs contrary to the Constitution.
Governor Alleges Political Motives Behind Legislation
The governor accused the PTI-led provincial government of acting under pressure and seeking tighter control over the inspector general of police and the provincial police force.
He pointed to PTI’s earlier stance that the police should remain apolitical, arguing that the proposed law would instead deepen political influence over the force.
Kundi further claimed that the president and the federal government believed that if governor’s rule were imposed in the province, no additional measures would be necessary.
Cabinet Approves Bill With Amendments
The provincial cabinet approved the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Act 2026 with amendments covering police appointments, transfers, oversight and administrative powers.
The changes were endorsed during the cabinet’s 59th meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi.
KP Information Minister Shafi Jan said a subcommittee’s report on the proposed police legislation was presented to the cabinet. The report was prepared in consultation with KP police authorities and approved with additional recommendations.
Key Provisions Under Review
- Amendments to police appointments and transfers
- Revised oversight mechanisms for the provincial force
- Expanded administrative powers for police leadership
- Consultation with KP police authorities before approval
The standoff sets the stage for a constitutional confrontation between the provincial government and the governor’s office over the future of policing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
