PTM ban to remain in force, says governor

Kundi says movement's demands will be presented to Centre

PESHAWAR:

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has stated that the ban on the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) will remain in place. He reiterated that everyone has the right to protest, but actions against Pakistan's integrity and the state will not be tolerated.

He mentioned that although PTM is not a parliamentary party, they have been invited to present their demands, which will be raised in parliament. "Any demands from the delegation, that are in accordance with the Constitution, will be accepted," the governor said.

He made these remarks during a press conference at the Governor House on Friday. PML-N MPA Jalal Khan was also present at the occasion.

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa governor emphasised that restoring peace in the province and lifting it out of darkness is a collective responsibility. "Internal matters must be resolved among ourselves, and negotiations will take place with those who respect the constitution and law. President Asif Ali Zardari has always advocated for reconciliation, peace, and dialogue. The aim is to make Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa a peaceful and prosperous province," he added.

He also noted that the province is currently facing a challenging situation with an increase in incidents of terrorism. He has consistently spoken about the need for peace and urged both the federal and provincial governments to take the situation in the province seriously. "Both levels of government are taking steps to improve law and order in the province."

Regarding the political delegation at the Chief Minister's House, the Governor said that in the broader interest of the province, he set aside political differences and participated in the meeting. "Political leaders presented their recommendations, and a committee was established under the leadership of the chief minister, which will include parliamentary leaders from all parties." Kundi revealed.

He added that the body will engage with the members of the delegation in the Khyber district and present their demands to the federal government.

He acknowledged that Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi showed great flexibility during the political delegation and accepted the recommendations put forth. "Any further recommendations from the committee, established within the framework of the constitution and law, will also be presented to the federal government."

The governor reiterated that protesting is a right, and the PPP, being a democratic party, believes in struggles within the bounds of the constitution and law. He recalled that even after the judicial execution of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and the assassination of Benazir Bhutto, the PPP never raised its voice against the state or waved any foreign flag.