PTI government in KP asserts stability and rejects speculation of governor rule
Afridi Warns Against Any Attempt to Impose Governor Rule
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Tuesday strongly rejected any potential move to impose governor rule in the province. He said KP is functioning according to the vision of PTI founder Imran Khan and remains fully governed by its elected leadership. Speaking to the media, Afridi said the province will not be intimidated by political pressure. He challenged the federal authorities by saying that anyone who has the courage should attempt to impose governor rule.
Afridi further said KP continues to prioritize support for vulnerable communities. He stressed that social welfare programs remain a core part of the provincial agenda despite outstanding federal arrears.
Launch of Welfare Programs for Disabled Citizens
During a ceremony at the Special Education Complex in Hayatabad, Afridi inaugurated the Ehsaas Omid Program. Under the initiative, ten thousand severely disabled citizens will receive monthly financial assistance of five thousand rupees from January to June 2026.
New transport services for special education students were also launched. The provincial government handed over twenty three vehicles to the Social Welfare Department. These included twelve minibuses and eleven high speed buses that will serve fifty four special institutions across the province.
A large quantity of assistive devices was also distributed. These included two thousand electric wheelchairs, two thousand five hundred manual wheelchairs, eight hundred tricycles, three thousand six hundred sewing machines, six hundred seventeen hearing aids, one hundred two white canes, forty four crutches, and ninety six walkers. The total value of the distribution reached seven hundred sixty million rupees.
Provincial Concerns and Federal Arrears
Afridi highlighted serious financial challenges facing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He stated that the federal government owes KP more than three thousand billion rupees. He added that if these arrears were cleared, the provincial government could expand its development work significantly.
Afridi also referenced corruption claims at the federal level which he said amount to five thousand three hundred billion rupees. Despite limited resources, Afridi said the KP government continues to improve school transport services, strengthen welfare programs, and ensure timely distribution of Zakat funds.
Federal Authorities Clarify Constitutional Position
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar addressed concerns about the political narrative surrounding governor rule. He said governor rule is a constitutional provision and not a form of martial law. Speaking in the National Assembly, he stated that any such step must follow legal procedures and warned government officials not to use state resources for illegal protests.
PTI leaders including Barrister Gohar and Salman Akram Raja stated that KP is functioning normally under its majority elected leadership. They argued that the presence of an elected cabinet and stable administration negates any justification for governor rule.
Security and Migration Concerns Addressed by Interior Ministry
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi spoke about rising concerns regarding fake news, visa misuse, and the presence of illegal Afghan nationals. He stated that Afghans involved in attacks on Islamabad and FC headquarters have been identified and will be returned. He also warned that the spread of false information on social media will not be tolerated.
What Is Driving the Governor Rule Debate
The discussion around governor rule in KP is resurfacing because of political tension between the federal and provincial governments. Afridi’s reaction reflects concerns that the central government may attempt administrative intervention in the province.
Where Are the Pressures Coming From
Political friction stems from delayed federal payments and differing political mandates. KP is governed by PTI leadership while the federal government is controlled by opposing parties. This divergence continues to influence institutional relationships.
Why Is Afridi Emphasizing Imran Khan Vision
Afridi’s repeated focus on Imran Khan vision suggests an attempt to reassure PTI supporters and reinforce internal unity. By tying provincial governance to a popular figure among voters, Afridi strengthens political legitimacy.
How Could the Debate Affect Provincial Stability
If tensions escalate, the resulting uncertainty could impact governance, welfare distribution, and public confidence. Analysts say a balanced approach and cooperative dialogue between federal and provincial authorities would help avoid destabilization.