PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Governor Faisal Karim Kundi on Friday condemned recent remarks by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi that criticised security forces, calling them “irresponsible and damaging to national morale.”
In a statement, the governor said he “condemns any rhetoric that seeks to undermine the honour and sacrifice of the armed forces.” He said the “brave sons of our soil lay down their lives to protect the province,” and warned that “questioning their intent in sensational terms only damages morale and public safety.”
Kundi said that intelligence-based operations were and would remain essential to protect civilians and maintain peace. “These operations are conducted solely to safeguard people and restore stability,” he said, urging that “political debate must not cross into actions or words that weaken our security institutions.”
The governor advised the chief minister to exercise restraint and prioritize the safety and unity of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over partisan politics. “The province’s security situation demands that all political forces stand with our armed forces in pursuit of lasting peace and stability,” he said. “Ultimately, it is the people who will deliver accountability in the coming elections.”
I condemn any rhetoric that seeks to undermine the honour and sacrifice of our armed forces. The brave sons of our soil lay down their lives to protect our province — questioning their intent in sensational terms only damages morale and public safety. Intelligence based… pic.twitter.com/kMj0OamaOl
— Faisal Karim Kundi (@fkkundi) November 7, 2025
His statement came a day after Chief Minister Sohail Afridi sparked controversy by accusing security forces of disrespecting religious spaces. “They would tie dogs inside our mosques… we would say this is an insult, and they would reply that you and these dogs are one and the same,” Afridi said during a press talk in Islamabad on Thursday.
The chief minister also warned that no military operation would be allowed without provincial consultation, claiming that “security forces live in luxury while people bear the consequences of their actions.”
Also Read: KP CM Sohail Afridi forms cabinet— see who made the list
The exchange has further deepened political tensions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa amid ongoing concerns over militancy and the role of security forces in maintaining peace.
