PESHAWAR: Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sohail Afridi, said that the free medical treatment program initiated by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) in Punjab has been terminated.
This statement was made during a two-day health awareness conference organized by the Pakistan Medical Association in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where Afridi served as a special guest.
In his address, Afridi emphasized that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is the only province providing free treatment facilities to 100 percent of its population. He mentioned that the government plans to significantly increase resources for the nutrition sector in the upcoming financial year’s budget, as health and education are critical areas tied directly to public welfare. Thus, the provincial government prioritizes investment in these sectors.
The Chief Minister pointed out that systemic change cannot be achieved by one person alone; it requires collective effort from everyone to fulfill their responsibilities. He stressed the importance of instilling a sense of accountability in all individuals, noting that neglecting one’s responsibilities can be considered a form of corruption.
Afridi stated that the provincial government is working toward making governance and service delivery more effective and transparent. He criticized systems that favor the wealthy over the poor, arguing that true development occurs only when there is a uniform legal and justice system for all citizens.
He affirmed that the struggle initiated by Imran Khan to abolish separate systems for the rich and poor continues with vigor today. Together, he believes, they can transform Pakistan into a strong and genuine welfare state in line with the visions of Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam.
Additionally, the Chief Minister paid tribute to Dr. Yasmin Rashid, commending her courage and perseverance in facing current challenges. He noted that she has bravely fought her own battles while also advocating for the needs of the community.
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