Web Desk: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has faced criticism over his decision to leave the province for a five-day political visit to Sindh as the province grapples with security concerns, administrative challenges and rising political tensions.
Critics in Peshawar questioned the use of official protocol and government resources for the chief minister’s travel, arguing that his absence could raise questions about the administration of the province at a time when authorities are facing mounting security pressures.
Afridi departed for Rahim Yar Khan on Thursday for a visit to Sindh that will run from Sept. 3 to 7. The trip is aimed at mobilising political workers and preparing for a planned long march on Sept. 27.
During his stay, Afridi is scheduled to meet party workers, local leaders and other stakeholders. He is also expected to participate in political gatherings and meetings intended to strengthen the party’s organisational network across Sindh.
The chief minister has described the visit as part of efforts to accelerate political mobilisation and finalise arrangements for the September march.
However, the trip has drawn criticism from citizens in Peshawar, who questioned who would oversee the province’s administrative and political affairs while the chief minister remains outside KP.
Critics also raised concerns about whether the provincial government would maintain normal administrative operations during his absence and whether the use of public resources for the political trip was justified.
The criticism has added to broader concerns over the government’s priorities as KP faces persistent security and governance challenges.
The political controversy comes as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continues to face militant violence, with security incidents placing additional pressure on the provincial administration and law-enforcement agencies.
Militant attacks, including assaults on security personnel and other violent incidents in several districts, have kept security high on the province’s agenda. The deteriorating security environment has also intensified calls for stronger counterterrorism measures and greater attention to law and order.
Against this backdrop, Afridi’s decision to spend several days outside the province on political mobilisation has prompted questions over whether the provincial government should instead focus its resources and leadership on addressing security and administrative concerns at home.
Meanwhile, Afridi’s Sindh visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to preparations for the Sept. 27 long march.
The chief minister plans to use meetings with party workers and local leaders to improve coordination, expand organisational support and encourage participation in the planned street movement.
The competing demands of political mobilisation and provincial governance are likely to keep pressure on the KP government as it seeks to manage its political agenda while responding to the province’s security challenges.
Read more: Security forces foil infiltration attempt from Afghanistan, 15 terrorists killed
