Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Wednesday strongly rejected criticism from the military leadership over his government’s counterterrorism approach. He said the province has already endured immense suffering from past military operations. He noted it cannot afford a repeat of that devastation.
Speaking at a convocation ceremony in Peshawar, Afridi responded to remarks made a day earlier by Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations. The military spokesperson had questioned the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s position on counterterrorism. He linked rising militant attacks in the province to what he described as a politically permissive environment.
During his press briefing, the ISPR chief stated that a majority of terrorist incidents in Pakistan had occurred in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. He played video clips of senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leaders, including Afridi. Furthermore, he cited statements attributed to PTI founder Imran Khan, questioning their opposition to military operations.
Read: DG ISPR Says PTI Founder Used Ex-ISI Chief Faiz Hameed for Politics
He accused the party of resisting counterterrorism efforts and alleged that its leadership was seeking support from Afghanistan. He argued that thousands of attacks had already taken place in the province and dismissed PTI’s narrative as political rhetoric. He stressed that the state must defeat terrorism through decisive action.
Afridi said he felt deeply hurt by the tone and implications of the press conference. He warned that decisions made behind closed doors could prove dangerous. He confirmed that preparations for new operations were under discussion.
Recalling earlier military campaigns, the chief minister said security operations devastated entire communities. Schools, hospitals, and homes suffered damage. Civilians lost their lives in drone strikes and bombings. Furthermore, widespread displacement and poverty left lasting scars on the province.
Becoming emotional, Afridi stressed that his commitment lies with the people of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. He pledged to prioritise education, employment, and development, rather than returning the province to conflict. Afridi stated his emotion reflected concern for the future rather than fear.
He also claimed that authorities have politicised counterterrorism efforts. Afridi argued that accountability appears selective and alleged that only PTI’s founding chairman faces targeting.
The chief minister opened his address with a poetic verse. He urged graduating students to serve the province and the country with integrity. Afridi criticised the use of English at the ceremony. He expressed displeasure that the vice chancellor delivered her speech in English. Moreover, he reiterated that Urdu, as the national language, should be used at official academic events. He warned that future violations would draw a strong response.
