Opp slams K-P govt over provincial failures

MPAs vent frustration on pour governance

PESHAWAR:

Opposition members strongly criticised the provincial government for poor performance, corruption, and the deteriorating law and order situation.

During the K-P Assembly session on Tuesday, ANP member Nisar Baz Khan stated that all democratic institutions seek the supremacy of parliament and the rule of the constitution. He added it was unfortunate that parties, supported by the establishment in the past, are now trying to clear themselves of blame through criticism.

These same parties have allowed the establishment to enter politics and reach power. He emphasised that lawlessness is at its peak in the province, the police are under attack, and the people's morale is declining. He highlighted that there are frequent attacks on checkpoints in Bajaur, and questioned what plan the provincial government has for the protection of the people.

He criticised the government for its silence, lack of work on any mega projects, and the shortage of doctors in Bajaur hospitals. He also noted that anti-rabies vaccines have been unavailable for three months. The opposition member pointed out that more than 7,000 students have passed matriculation, but 5,000 are unable to secure college admissions due to a lack of seats. He bemoaned that students were being neglected.

He stressed that the cycle of power struggles for the sake of governance must end, and the supremacy of the Constitution and the rule of law is essential.

PPP member Arbab Zarak Khan raised concerns about the increasing number of dengue cases in Peshawar and urged the government to take notice. He acknowledged the bravery of the security forces, stating that their courage is why they are safe today. However, he criticized the provincial rulers for spending provincial resources on their protests and creating an anti-establishment narrative simply because they have no performance to show the public.

He pointed out that the law-and-order situation is worsening, hospitals lack beds, and access to clean drinking water remains a major issue, with 40% of the province's population not having access to safe drinking water. He also warned that by 2030, the province's debt could reach 2,500 billion rupees.

He further mentioned that billions of rupees worth of wheat are rotting in warehouses, and a billion rupees worth of gloves have gone missing, calling for an inquiry into this corruption.

He accused the government of selling out Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, stating that while they have the right to protest, they should not misuse the province's resources. He noted that while they protest during the day, they seek forgiveness at night.

Opposition member Muhammad Rashad Khan pointed out that the government is seeking amendments to the Police Act, even though the police have made significant sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. He criticised the contradictory stance of the government, which talks against institutions while weakening its own departments.

He mentioned that the accountability commission, which was politicised for five years, was eventually shut down. He also highlighted the irony of the government introducing the most expensive Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project after previously mocking the "Jangla Bus" service.