Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has defended the federal government’s decision to impose emergency and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). He said the government could not ignore threats to national security.
Speaking at a high-level meeting of the Apex Committee on Thursday, the Prime Minister criticised the previous provincial government’s handling of counterterrorism efforts. He alleged that its policies weakened security measures and allowed terrorists to return.
Shehbaz said the federal government had a responsibility to act when national security was at risk. He stressed that authorities could not remain silent while the province faced security challenges.
The Prime Minister also highlighted several issues within KP’s police and counterterrorism departments. He said around 5,000 police positions remained vacant during the previous provincial government’s tenure.
He also raised concerns about delays in Safe City projects across the province. According to him, progress in strengthening the Counter Terrorism Department had remained limited.
The prime minister further pointed to shortcomings in police training. He argued that these issues had affected the province’s ability to respond effectively to terrorism.
Shehbaz said the federal government had offered resources to the previous two chief ministers of KP. The assistance was intended to help them address terrorism and improve security.
However, he alleged that the offers had not been acted upon. The remarks added to the ongoing debate over responsibility for the province’s security situation.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister also announced the formation of an advisory council. The council will help develop recommendations and improve the situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He also directed authorities to conduct a transparent investigation into a school roof-collapse tragedy. The incident reportedly killed dozens of children.
The prime minister instructed the KP governor to visit the site of the tragedy. The visit is expected to help authorities assess the situation and review the circumstances surrounding the incident.
KP Governor Kundi also addressed the meeting and discussed the province’s priorities. He said peace and development were essential for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Kundi stressed that residents should not have to choose between security and progress. He called attention to the need for both stability and development in the province.
The meeting focused on security concerns, institutional performance, and steps to improve conditions in KP. The federal government has defended its proposed measures as necessary for addressing the province’s challenges.
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The developments come amid continued concerns over terrorism and public safety in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Further progress will depend on government decisions, security measures, and cooperation between the relevant authorities.
