PM Shehbaz meets KP CM Afridi to discuss security, governance issues

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Afridi on Monday to discuss the overall law and order situation in the province, along with matters of mutual interest, sources said.

The meeting focused on measures to strengthen security, maintain stability, and address administrative and governance challenges in KP. The leaders also exchanged views on enhancing coordination between federal and provincial governments to ensure effective implementation of policies for public welfare and peace.

KP CM raises IDP funding concerns

Earlier, CM Afridi had expressed plans to raise key grievances of the province in his meeting with the prime minister, amid a dispute with the federal government over funding for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and alleged political pressure on the KP administration.

Addressing a peace jirga in Khyber district on Sunday, Afridi accused the federal government of misappropriating billions of rupees intended for IDPs from former tribal areas. He said that when the provincial government allocated Rs4 billion for affected families, it faced corruption allegations from federal quarters. Afridi announced that the KP government would instead allocate Rs100 billion for IDPs.

Federal ministers have alleged mismanagement by the PTI-led KP government in distributing funds for displaced families from Tirah Valley. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar earlier said the provincial government must account for the Rs4 billion allocated, noting that a local jirga had raised concerns over corruption and poor administration. The federal government maintains that displacement from Tirah was seasonal, linked to winter conditions, a claim disputed by KP officials.

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Terror attacks and governor’s rule warning

Afridi also condemned recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan that claimed the lives of security personnel and civilians. He warned against moves to impose governor’s rule in KP, alleging attempts were being made to remove him through court proceedings.

The chief minister asked jirga participants to choose between returning to Tirah or marching to Islamabad in protest. Participants reportedly supported a protest plan, although Afridi said he would first visit all tribal districts before making a final decision.

Separately, the Khyber Qaumi Jirga called on both federal and provincial authorities to ensure protection, facilities, and dignified rehabilitation for displaced families from Tirah Valley, urging stronger coordination and solidarity.