Former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has urged Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s newly elected Chief Minister Sohail Afridi to work closely with all stakeholders in formulating a comprehensive anti-terror strategy aimed at restoring peace and stability in the province.
In a message from jail shared on X, Imran congratulated Afridi on his election as CM, emphasizing that the PTI government must focus on sustainable peace and economic revival. He stressed that the people of KP had given PTI a clear mandate, and therefore, the new administration must act in their best interests.
Imran Khan Calls for Collective Action on Counterterrorism
Imran Khan directed Afridi to engage all key players—political, security, and community leaders—to design an effective approach against terrorism. “I once again direct the new Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to engage with all stakeholders to formulate an effective and comprehensive strategy against terrorism so that lasting peace can be established,” he said.
He added that stability and peace in KP would directly contribute to reviving the province’s economy, which has long been affected by militant activities and cross-border unrest.
The PTI founder reaffirmed his party’s commitment to national interests, asserting, “We will never go against the interests of Pakistan or the people of KP. We are answerable only to them.”
“You’re My Opening Batsman,” Imran Tells Afridi
Referring to Afridi as his “opening batsman,” Imran Khan encouraged him to lead with confidence and resolve. “He should play with confidence,” Imran said, signaling his complete trust in Afridi’s leadership.
He also commended PTI lawmakers for standing firm on party ideology during the leadership transition. “The way the members of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa stood firm on their ideology and voted for my nominated Chief Minister without hesitation is commendable,” he stated.
Tribute to Gandapur for Stepping Down Gracefully
Imran Khan praised outgoing Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur for stepping down upon his directives, calling the move a demonstration of party discipline and unity. “I pay tribute to Ali Amin Gandapur, who, without any reluctance, resigned not once but three times. This smooth transition proves that PTI’s ideology reigns supreme in KP,” he said.
Afridi Vows to Continue Imran’s Vision and Review Afghan Policy
In his first address after being elected as CM, Sohail Afridi echoed Imran’s call for collective action against terrorism. He emphasized the need to involve local elders, parliamentarians, and representatives in peacebuilding efforts, particularly in areas affected by militant activity.
“Where there is terrorism, the solution is to take the elders, local representatives, and people into confidence,” Afridi said.
He also called for a review of Pakistan’s Afghan policy, suggesting that regional peace and security required reassessment of cross-border dynamics.
Afridi further cautioned authorities against transferring Imran Khan from Adiala Jail without consultation, warning that any such move would provoke a nationwide protest. “If Imran Khan is moved without consultation with his family or party, we will paralyse the whole country,” he declared.
PTI to Probe Election Irregularities
Reaffirming PTI’s stance on the February 8, 2024, general elections, Afridi announced plans to investigate alleged rigging that, according to the party, deprived them of multiple constituencies. “We will launch a probe into how our constituencies were stolen,” he vowed.
Afridi’s election marks a new chapter for PTI in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. His leadership, backed by Imran Khan’s continued influence, is expected to shape the province’s political and security trajectory in the coming months.
