Senior political leader Dr. Ibadullah, while addressing a press conference, raised serious concerns over the utilization of approximately Rs. 800 billion allocated to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) for the war against terrorism, questioning why the province still lacks essential security infrastructure despite massive funding.
Dr. Ibadullah stated that even after receiving substantial financial resources, KP does not have a functional Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), a modern forensic laboratory, or a Safe City project. “Where did this money go?” he questioned, warning that the law and order situation in the province continues to deteriorate rapidly.
Highlighting operational challenges, Dr. Ibadullah said that conducting security operations during winter is extremely difficult, as people are unable to vacate their homes in harsh weather. However, he emphasized that there is no alternative if peace is to be restored. He criticized the provincial government for what he termed contradictory and misleading statements, noting that while the KP government publicly claims to oppose military operations, it has itself financed such operations.
He further revealed that decisions regarding security operations were taken in Apex Committee meetings, yet the provincial leadership presents different narratives behind closed doors and in public, calling this approach irresponsible and deceptive.
Referring to the announcement of a street march scheduled for February 8, Dr. Ibadullah said that KP is the ruling party’s own province, yet he challenged them to show even a single educational institution or dispensary built over the past two years. “Other provinces are moving forward, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been put into reverse gear,” he remarked.
Dr. Ibadullah alleged that a small group of three individuals is effectively running the entire province, adding that corruption is rampant. He stated that the people of KP have suffered for over 13 years, and now it is time for accountability and redress.
He also criticized former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s statement celebrating the Taliban takeover of Kabul as a ‘day of victory’, alleging that the same political leadership facilitated the Taliban’s return to Pakistan and continues to provide financial support to militant elements.
Addressing the issue of FATA reforms, Dr. Ibadullah pointed out that the government at the time was led by Imran Khan. “Why was there no concern then?” he asked, adding that members of the ruling party were part of the NFC Award, yet failed to raise these issues when it mattered.
On the occasion, Murtaza Javed Abbasi also addressed the press conference and accused the KP government of using all provincial resources to confront the federal government instead of combating terrorism. He said that no serious counter-terrorism effort is visible in the province and expressed concern that not a single representative of the KP government participated in peace jirgas.
Mr. Abbasi urged Chief Minister Sohail Afridi to focus on restoring peace in the province. He stressed that at a time when national unity is critical, especially in light of Indian threats and potential U.S. planning regarding Iran, the KP government’s conduct is deeply concerning. He went as far as to say that the provincial government’s actions are no less harmful than those of hostile forces, accusing it of creating divisions within the nation.
The speakers concluded by calling for transparent accountability, genuine commitment to counter-terrorism, and a unified national approach to ensure peace and stability in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and across Pakistan.
