PESHAWAR: Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi spoke to the media after attending a high-level meeting at Aiwan-e-Sadr, Islamabad focused on national and international crises.
He said KP participated in the meeting in the national interest, discussing petroleum supply and regional developments.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the PTI and KP government will not support decisions that harm public welfare. He praised former PM Imran Khan for leadership during COVID-19 and the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, shielding Pakistan from negative impacts.
Afridi warned that policies disrupting economic activity threaten national stability. He stressed Pakistan’s need for peaceful diplomacy, noting the Muslim world looks to Pakistan and highlighting a revitalized role for the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
On fiscal matters, he raised concerns over KP’s unpaid NFC share (Rs.1,375 billion) and Net Hydel Profit, particularly for merged districts. He criticized the extension of the 7th NFC Award beyond 2018 as unconstitutional. Afridi stressed that any new federal support must follow full disbursement of KP’s due share.
Highlighting KP’s relief efforts, he noted the province handled flood emergencies, Sehat Card, and Ramadan aid using its own resources Rs 100 billion), without federal help. He called for austerity across state institutions and reaffirmed KP’s frontline role against terrorism.
Regarding a possible lockdown, no final decision has been made; a committee will provide direction. Afridi also expressed concern over restrictions on meeting Imran Khan and court delays, urging due process and justice.
