Sohail Afridi boldly condemns systemic oppression, urging Islamabad’s legal fraternity to rise against authoritarian maneuvers

In a daring and uncompromising address, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi called on Pakistan’s lawyers to confront the establishment’s encroachments on judicial independence and civil liberties. Speaking at an Islamabad Bar Association event on Monday, Afridi positioned himself as a defiant defender of democracy and constitutional supremacy, rallying the legal community to support the PTI’s struggle against systemic injustice.

Afridi Exposes Establishment Overreach

“If you do not stand for the Constitution and an independent judiciary, future generations will spit on us and you as well,” Afridi warned, directly challenging entrenched power structures. He urged lawyers to initiate a movement for justice, assuring them that youth and civil society would rally behind their courage.

Afridi condemned the 26th and 27th Constitutional Amendments as instruments of oppression, and highlighted unfair trials faced by journalists and political workers. He emphasized that resistance against the establishment is not optional, it is a moral imperative.

Highlighting PTI’s Sacrifices and Injustice

Afridi defended PTI founder Imran Khan, stressing that the fight is for justice and fairness, not personal gain. He referenced political persecution, including the illegal incarceration of political workers and Arshad Sharif’s brutal assassination abroad, as evidence of the establishment’s disregard for life and legal integrity.

He also praised Advocate Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, calling her a symbol of courage, inspiring youth to stand up against entrenched power.

Warning of Escalating Repression

Afridi cautioned that today’s oppression of PTI could become tomorrow’s reality for everyone, highlighting the arrogance and authoritarianism of the ruling elite. He criticized Adiala Jail officials for ignoring court orders to permit meetings with Imran Khan, framing it as part of a coordinated attempt to weaken political dissent.

He also rejected plans for military operations in KP, calling them hooliganism, and underscored that real governance is being replaced by force and intimidation.

Analysis: Afridi as a Beacon of Resistance

Afridi’s speech demonstrates bold leadership against an oppressive system, positioning him as a voice of conscience for Pakistan. By calling on lawyers to act, he underscores the central role of legal and civic resistance in protecting democracy and safeguarding citizens’ rights.

His address reflects growing frustration with the establishment, while encouraging youth, lawyers, and civil society to challenge authoritarian measures with unity and courage.