Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Wednesday criticised the federal government’s counterterrorism strategy, saying policies made “behind closed doors” and imposed on the province have failed to achieve the desired results.
Speaking at the Aman Jirga, CM Afridi emphasised that the KP government has consistently advocated for peace, but unfortunately, “some people” have not welcomed these efforts. He stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved through the complete eradication of terrorism.
“Decisions on anti-terror policy are made in closed rooms, and so far they have not yielded the results we need,” Afridi said. He added that local representatives, parliamentarians, elders, and the public should be involved in shaping counterterrorism strategies.
In his first address to the provincial assembly since taking office last month, Afridi called for a shift in the policymaking process. “Policy must move out of closed rooms. An inclusive approach involving politicians, security forces, and all stakeholders is essential for success,” he asserted.
The chief minister stressed that military action should always remain a last resort, while other strategies should be prioritised to maintain peace in the province. “War should remain the last option,” he reiterated, highlighting that collaborative efforts are key to lasting stability.
CM Afridi also acknowledged the sacrifices made by Pakistanis in the fight against terrorism, noting, “Politics may differ, but peace is our shared goal. When a bomb explodes, it does not see whether the victim belongs to PTI, PPP, or any other party. Everyone has sacrificed for Pakistan.”
He urged all stakeholders to contribute to a participatory approach, assuring that the provincial government would fully support initiatives aimed at ending terrorism.
Other political leaders at the Aman Jirga echoed concerns over governance and development in KP. Awami National Party (ANP) leader Mian Iftikhar Hussain called on the provincial government to prioritise the province’s interests rather than political disputes with the federal government. He also urged serious talks with Islamabad to release NFC Award funds and empower the police.
Jamaat-e-Islami former chief Siraj-ul-Haq criticised inter-party conflicts, saying, “Our province is being neglected and its development stalled. The public suffers the most from political disputes.”
Qaumi Watan Party Chairman Aftab Sherpao expressed concerns over law and order, pointing out that the government’s authority is not visible in many districts. “Ongoing operations have caused fear, displacement, and loss among local communities,” he said.
CM Afridi concluded by urging cooperation from all sides to combat terrorism and build a lasting peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
