K-P warns of boycott over discrimination

Afridi raises PTI curbs, Imran family issues, CNG suspension

PESHAWAR:

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi has warned that continued political discrimination against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) could force the provincial government to reconsider cooperation with the federal government, including a possible boycott.

Addressing a provincial cabinet meeting, Afridi spoke at length on the national and provincial situation, political context, and the government's development priorities. He stated that the decision to postpone the public gathering scheduled for April 9 was taken in the broader national interest.

The Chief Minister noted that Pakistan is increasingly being recognised globally for its role in promoting peace and dialogue, adding that Imran Khan has consistently advocated this approach for over two decades.

Highlighting PTI's conduct, Afridi said the party had prioritised national interest over political considerations, including participating in federal-level meetings despite political costs.

However, he expressed concern over what he termed continued political discrimination against the party, including excessive force against workers, violations of private spaces, and mistreatment of Imran Khan's family members. He also raised serious concerns over reported denial of access to personal physicians and family members for Bushra Bibi, terming it a violation of fundamental rights.

The Chief Minister also took serious notice of the suspension of CNG supply in the province, asserting that provinces where natural resources are produced have first right to meet domestic needs. He directed authorities to take up the matter with SNGPL urgently and warned of a strong response, including a boycott.

On development, Afridi announced that the Annual Development Programme 2026–27 is in its final stages, with citizens to be engaged through a feedback mechanism on social media from May 4 to May 8 on roads, water supply and healthcare.

Separately, Special Assistant on Information Shafi Jan briefed media on cabinet decisions, including approval of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Fiscal Responsibility & Debt Management (Amendment) Bill 2026, introducing fiscal reforms and a Debt Management Office. Debt servicing shall not exceed five percent of average provincial revenue, extendable to seven percent with approval, while total public debt and guarantees shall not exceed 75 per cent of revenue.

The cabinet also approved the Budget Strategy Paper 2026–27, amendments to prison rules for virtual visits for female relatives, a performance framework with incentives of up to four running basic pays, and the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Journalist Welfare Endowment Fund (Amendment) Bill 2026.