KP governor pledges full support to security forces, vows action against terrorism and corruption

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said eliminating terrorism was the government’s top priority and pledged full resources for police and security agencies to improve law and order in the province.

Addressing a news conference in Peshawar, Kundi said the province had embarked on a new journey and that cooperation between the federal and provincial governments would help address security and development issues.

“Terrorism is fought by the entire nation, not just the army,” he said, adding that the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa stood shoulder to shoulder with the Pakistan Armed Forces.

The governor said the government would provide full support to the army, police, Frontier Constabulary and other law enforcement agencies.

He said strengthening the capacity of the police and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) was a priority, and the government would provide modern equipment and necessary resources to security personnel.

Kundi said Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had provided 10 armored personnel carriers (APCs) to the province and assured further assistance.

“We will cut spending elsewhere but ensure the police receive full resources,” he said.

The governor announced plans to bring KP police salaries on par with those in other provinces and increase compensation packages for the families of personnel killed in the line of duty.

He said the days of a lack of cooperation between the federation and the province were over, adding that the federal government would meet any shortage of resources.

Kundi said the prime minister had assured him that the province’s issues would be resolved, while the president and prime minister would visit soon to address outstanding matters.

He said the provincial government would present its case for resources before the federation through arguments rather than abusive language, accusing PTI of failing to effectively advocate for the province at the federal level.

“Our policy will originate from Islamabad, not Kandahar or Jalalabad,” he said.

The governor said investment could only come to the province if peace was restored. He acknowledged the difficulties facing the province but said there was no room for despair.

“We have to clean up the mess left over 13 years. A difference will be visible within three months,” he said.

Referring to recent political developments, Kundi thanked the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for rejecting what he called a political “circus.”

He said the people had rejected hatred, extremism and partisan politics.

The governor also referred to plans to surround Governor House, saying he was personally waiting for those intending to stage the protest.

“Their container is lying abandoned. I am waiting for someone to come and take it away,” he said.

Referring to Sohail Afridi, Kundi said his status was “offline” and claimed he was in protective custody.

The governor said the law and order situation was improving and warned that those involved in vandalism or taking the law into their own hands would face legal action.

He said the government had adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption and that those found involved would face arrests and punishment.

“No leniency will be shown to anyone violating the law,” he said.

Kundi said illegal Afghan nationals were being expelled from the province.

He acknowledged that traders were facing difficulties because of the border situation but said Pakistan’s security would take priority.

Turning to education and healthcare, the governor assured university employees that their salaries would be paid and called on universities to provide quality higher education.

He warned that officials who failed to respect university faculty would not be allowed to remain in office.

Kundi also urged young doctors to immediately end their strike, assuring them that their issues would be resolved.

He said the government would work for the interests of young people, traders and the public, adding that its performance would be demonstrated through actions.