ISLAMABAD: Khawaja Asif Questions PTI’s Role in Counterterrorism efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, raising questions about the provincial government’s approach to security, governance and its coordination with federal institutions. The defence minister said the province should not be viewed only through the lens of political protests and confrontation with the federal government.
Khawaja Asif Questions PTI’s Role in Counterterrorism and Governance
Khawaja Asif said greater attention should be given to the growing threat of terrorism, governance and the constitutional responsibilities of the provincial administration. He questioned whether the provincial government had adequately fulfilled its administrative and constitutional obligations in addressing the security challenges facing the province.
The defence minister also criticised what he described as continued political confrontation between the provincial and federal governments, arguing that issues of public safety and governance should remain a priority.
Asif further alleged that the PTI-led provincial government had not demonstrated an effective response to the counterterrorism challenge. He also referred to allegations concerning the provision of financial resources to militant elements through extortion and described the matter as a serious security concern.
He said several issues required greater attention, including support for the families of security personnel killed in terrorist attacks, strengthening the police and Counter Terrorism Department, improving counterterrorism capabilities and enhancing governance in the merged districts.
Security and Governance Remain Key Concerns in KP
According to Khawaja Asif, maintaining law and order, combating terrorism, improving governance, strengthening federal stability and fulfilling constitutional responsibilities should be treated as national priorities.
He also called for a clearer focus on public safety and institutional responsibilities, saying political differences should not overshadow the security challenges facing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The remarks come amid continuing political differences between the federal government and the PTI-led administration in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, alongside persistent security concerns in the province.
