PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi stated that he has never discriminated between army personnel, law enforcement agencies, and civilian martyrs. He attended the funeral of the soldiers who were martyred in Kurram.
Speaking to reporters in Islamabad, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi emphasized that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police are fully capable of addressing the threat posed by terrorists. He announced that the criteria for police recruitment from the merged districts have been relaxed and that approval has been granted for the purchase of modern equipment for both the police and the special branch in the province.
Moreover, Afridi confirmed that a forensic lab will be established, with all necessary expenditures covered. He urged the federal government to pay the province’s dues, as this financial support could lead to significant improvements in the police, healthcare, and other sectors.
While honoring the sacrifices of martyrs and security forces, Afridi reiterated that there has always been no distinction between army personnel, law enforcement, and civilian martyrs. He stressed that the solution to every problem lies in negotiation and that certain policy changes are essential to restore public confidence and achieve success in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
Afridi also stated that if issues could be resolved by involving the province, there would be no harm in doing so. He expressed his dedication to Pakistan, saying, My life and death are with Pakistan. If I go to Afghanistan, I will emphasize that we are Pashtuns, Muslims, and neighbors. I urge them to stop the attacks. If the Afghans reject me, I will still have justification.
He noted that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party is taking action, which is why the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have granted him a third chance.
Read also: My province faces serious challenges: Sohail Afridi
