Federal Minister Condemns PTI's Priorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Information and Broadcasting Minister Attaullah Tarar launched a strong criticism against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Friday, accusing them of abandoning governance responsibilities in the province. The minister expressed his concerns through a detailed tweet on his official X account, highlighting what he described as the party's misplaced priorities.
Illegal Demands and Prison Rule Violations
Tarar specifically targeted PTI's continued focus on seeking political guidance from their founder, who is currently imprisoned in Adiala Jail on corruption charges. The minister emphasized that this practice clearly violates established prison regulations and demonstrates the party's disregard for legal boundaries. He stressed that instead of addressing the genuine needs of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's residents, the provincial leadership remains preoccupied with what he termed unlawful demands.
The information minister expressed particular concern about Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's critical role in Pakistan's ongoing fight against terrorism. He noted that despite this important position, the provincial government has largely ignored essential matters of peace, development, and public relief. According to Tarar, KP leaders have been spending excessive time in Islamabad, revolving their political activities around what he called an unlawful narrative.
Negative Propaganda and Anti-State Campaigns
In his social media statement, Tarar made serious allegations against a female PTI politician, accusing her of orchestrating a malicious campaign against Khan Sahib. He claimed this negative strategy involved accounts operating from Afghanistan that are hostile to Pakistan, with the campaign being amplified by Indian media outlets. The minister described these actions as open hostility toward Pakistan and an attempt to damage the nation's international reputation.
During his earlier media interaction in Nowshera, Tarar reiterated his concerns about the KP government's focus on organizing sit-ins rather than public welfare. "If they continue these sit-ins, who will pay attention to the province?" he questioned, highlighting the practical consequences of the government's current approach. He emphasized that the provincial administration should be concentrating on law enforcement and counter-terrorism efforts instead of protests.
The federal minister also addressed the issue of prison visits, questioning whether repeated meetings with the imprisoned PTI founder comply with jail regulations. He stated that no political prisoner has ever received as many privileges as the PTI founder currently enjoys, despite his conviction in what Tarar described as a £190 million corruption case.
Call for Shift in Priorities
Tarar urged PTI to abandon what he characterized as anti-state narratives and misplaced priorities. He called upon the party to focus on the interests of both the state and its citizens, emphasizing the need for genuine governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The minister specifically mentioned that the provincial government should be building new roads and improving infrastructure rather than organizing protests.
Regarding social media activities, Tarar expressed concern about PTI supporters seeking assistance from Indian social media handlers. He described this as part of a broader conspiracy to spread chaos throughout Pakistan and reaffirmed his commitment to defending the nation against what he perceives as coordinated attacks on its stability and reputation.
The minister concluded by praising Ikhtiar Wali Khan, whom he had visited to offer condolences for his mother's passing. He acknowledged Wali Khan's consistent support during difficult times and described him as a practitioner of principled politics and a strong voice representing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
