PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faizal Karim Kundi has pledged to stand by the Chief Minister and even go “two steps ahead” in fighting for the rights of the province.
Speaking to the media, Kundi emphasized that the provincial government would engage with the federal government using reasoned arguments and would ensure that the province’s rightful demands were met.
“The battle for the province’s rights will be fought alongside the Chief Minister, and I will be standing ahead of him,” Kundi asserted. He added that discussions with the federal government would be based on logic and reason, as the province seeks justice and recognition of its rightful claims.
Kundi also referred to the previous statements made by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership, who had previously vowed to fight till the end, but noted that many PTI leaders who had once been so vocal had now returned to their homes, while the party’s founder, Imran Khan, remains in jail.
“There were many talks of tying shrouds and holding funeral prayers, but now those very people have retreated, and the founder of PTI is behind bars,” Kundi remarked.
The Governor further stated that certain elements within PTI didn’t want Imran Khan to be released because it would mark the end of their political careers.
Kundi also took a jab at PTI’s shift in stance, pointing out that in the past, Imran Khan was unwilling to sit down with any political opponents, but now his party was advocating for dialogue. “The federal government has demonstrated its maturity to a great degree by accepting the invitation of PTI for talks,” he further added.
With regard to security, Kundi pointed to the growing unease in Kurram Agency, where he said the real difficulties in the establishment of peace and order are experienced. He remarked that the battle against terrorism must have the complete backing of the military, as only then would the country be able to reap the benefits of peace, which includes prosperity and development.
The Governor insisted that the provincial government has a policy of zero tolerance towards extortion and all other illegal businesses, and it will be very hard on the culprits. He called for the full cooperation of the provincial governments with the law enforcement agencies in order to bring the crime rate down.
While talking about the Afghan refugees issue, Kundi told that Afghan citizens should go back to their country, and those desiring to stay in Pakistan must do so through a legal process and with proper visas. He also mentioned the possibility of India using the Afghan territory for terrorism, and said, “When Pakistan can reply to India in four days, then it can also take care of a few troublemakers.”
