Kundi calls PTI long march a ‘circus’, challenges leaders to cross Swabi

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has criticised the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) long march, describing it as a “circus” moving from one city to another. He warned the party leadership of serious consequences if the protest led to unrest in the province.

Addressing a press conference in Peshawar on Friday, Kundi challenged PTI leaders to lead the march themselves rather than sending party workers to the front. He specifically challenged the leadership to cross Swabi, questioning their willingness to face the situation alongside their supporters.

The governor accused the PTI of adopting a confrontational approach towards the federal government. He stressed that provincial and federal authorities needed to work together to ensure effective administration and maintain law and order.

Kundi also referred to the May 9, 2023, protests, saying the events had damaged the party’s public image. He warned against any attempt to create a similar situation again and said such actions could have lasting consequences.

He questioned the PTI leadership’s reported approach of asking workers to participate in protests without senior leaders taking the lead. He insisted that party leaders should take responsibility for their political decisions and actions.

The governor said he was prepared to protect the Governor House and accept responsibility for the measures he had ordered. He maintained that his statements were not merely political rhetoric and claimed he was ready to take practical action when necessary.

Kundi advised PTI leaders and protesters to study Articles 149 and 131 of the Constitution, along with Schedule Four, to understand the relevant legal provisions. He also announced plans to convene a meeting to review the law and order situation in the province.

The governor also criticised Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi over the provincial government’s handling of security and administrative matters. He questioned the government’s ability to protect elected representatives and maintain public order.

Referring to reports of lawmakers being abducted, Kundi asked why the chief minister had been unable to ensure their safety. He argued that protecting elected representatives was a basic responsibility of the provincial administration.

He further highlighted the growing challenges facing public-sector institutions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to Kundi, doctors, nurses, university faculty members, teachers and employees of tehsil municipal administrations were on strike over various grievances.

The governor accused the provincial government of failing to address these concerns effectively. He alleged that the administration was more focused on financial interests than resolving the problems faced by government employees and public institutions.

Kundi said the province needed stronger governance and better coordination between its institutions. He also pledged to protect the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and take action against terrorism.

“We will protect our province and fight against the terrorists on the front line,” he said. He added that the provincial administration needed to improve its performance and address the security challenges facing the region.

The governor also commented on the possibility of imposing governor’s rule or an emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He said the decision would rest with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari, who would assess whether such measures were necessary.