K-P govt moves to quash May 9 cases

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Cabinet, in its 41st session chaired via video link by Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi, approved a series of major governance, transparency, and security measures including withdrawal of all 'politically motivated' May 9, 10 cases.

Another key decision announced by the CM is that all recruitment across government, semi-government, and autonomous institutions will now be conducted exclusively through the Educational Testing and Evaluation Agency (ETEA), eliminating the use of private testing agencies. This move is designed to ensure merit, transparency, and prevent corruption in public sector hiring.

The cabinet also decided to hand over the inquiry into the Radio Pakistan Peshawar incident to a special committee of the provincial assembly, ensuring an impartial and thorough investigation. In addition, cases registered on May 9 and 10, widely considered politically motivated and filed without evidence, have been ordered to be withdrawn.

Chief Minister Afridi emphasized the provision of bulletproof vehicles to civil officers, particularly those serving in district administrations, on a priority basis. He directed that any obstacles delaying the procurement of these vehicles be removed immediately to allow officials to perform their duties in a safe environment.

Expressing serious concern over the solitary confinement of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, CM Afridi called the measure inhumane and condemned it outright. He also criticized recent federal press briefings as unethical and illegal, aimed at inciting public unrest, and reaffirmed the provincial government's stance against any actions that may undermine public peace or divide the state.

The cabinet session reviewed matters including good governance, security, human rights, and the National Finance Commission (NFC) share. The CM urged civil officers to utilize modern technology and attend meetings online where feasible to reduce government expenditure. He reaffirmed the strict implementation of the Good Governance Roadmap previously issued.

Other key decisions included approval of financial aid for two patients requiring kidney and bone marrow transplants, allocation of funds to accelerate ongoing district development projects, and a Rs150 million special grant for the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD).

The cabinet also authorized a committee to procure additional wheat if needed, addressed the prolonged Torkham border closure's humanitarian impact, and ensured immediate provision of food, clean water, and essential facilities to stranded travelers.

The cabinet described these decisions as a landmark step toward securing provincial rights, promoting public welfare, enhancing security, and ensuring transparent governance throughout K-P.