Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Saturday outlined his government’s comprehensive vision for strengthening security, restoring public trust and improving governance across the province.
Speaking to defence correspondents, Afridi highlighted key reforms, reiterated unwavering loyalty to Pakistan and stressed the importance of dialogue and collective policymaking to counter terrorism.
Afridi praised the professionalism of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police, declaring them “fully capable of dealing with terrorists.” He confirmed that recruitment criteria for candidates from the merged districts had been relaxed to increase participation and opportunities for local youth. To further strengthen the force, he has approved the purchase of modern equipment for both the KP Police and the Special Branch.
Afridi announced that a forensic laboratory will be established in the province to enhance investigative capabilities. “We will do whatever it takes,” he said, emphasising that improved policing and technology are essential to meeting security challenges.
Acknowledging the persistent threat of terrorism, Afridi stressed that the people of KP have already rendered enormous sacrifices. “Terrorism has affected every sector of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” he said. He added that a revised and comprehensive National Action Plan is essential, calling for a unified national approach. “A policy should be made to uproot the scourge of terrorism… If the trust of the people is restored, we will win the war against terrorism,” he said.
The chief minister highlighted the need for inclusive decision-making, urging the federal government to take all stakeholders into confidence. He said he has always supported negotiation-based solutions: “The solution to every problem is in negotiations.” He stated that he has never drawn distinctions between military, law enforcement or civilian martyrs, adding that he personally attended the funerals of soldiers martyred in Kurram.
Afridi expressed concern over the financial challenges faced by the province, noting that the merged districts have not yet been fully financially integrated into KP. He invited the federal government to audit the province’s finances but insisted that pending dues must also be cleared so KP can improve key sectors including policing and health.
He also stressed the need to restore public trust in the state, revealing that residents whose homes were destroyed during previous operations were promised compensation— promises still unfulfilled. “Those whose houses were destroyed were promised Rs400,000 each, but they did not get it. It is necessary to restore the trust of those who made sacrifices,” he said.
Afridi reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and accountability, stating, “If my own brother is involved in corruption, he should be punished.” He called for disclosure of the assets of officers posted at the borders and rejected “closed-door policies.”
The chief minister praised the current Chief Secretary and Inspector General of Police, saying they were performing exceptionally well. He said he wanted the present IG to continue, especially given the province’s security context.
On foreign relations, Afridi maintained a conciliatory yet firm stance toward Afghanistan, stating that during any visit he would urge Afghan authorities to halt cross-border attacks. “If the Afghans refuse me, I will also have a justification,” he added.
Affirming his patriotic commitment, Afridi said, “We love Pakistan… My life and death are with Pakistan. When the time comes, we will stand only with Pakistan.”
Concluding his remarks, Afridi reiterated his priorities: education, health, law and order, and a peaceful future for the province. He confirmed that legislation at the provincial level is being prepared to ensure tougher punishments for terrorists, assuring the public that KP will not compromise on security.