CM Sohail Afridi announces KP cabinet’s policy directions, forms inquiry commission

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi chaired a provincial cabinet meeting on Friday, during which he outlined the policy framework of his government and announced several significant initiatives aimed at governance reforms, transparency, and peace.

CM Afridi began by thanking all political parties that took part in the peace jirga held a day earlier, saying that while political differences will continue to exist, “peace is our common goal.”

He assured that all resolutions passed by the provincial assembly will be fully implemented, highlighting that the most critical among them is the resolution calling for the abolition of the Action in Aid of Civil Powers law, which he described as “against basic human rights.”

In a major development, the chief minister announced the establishment of an inquiry commission to investigate the May 9 attack on Radio Pakistan. The commission will gather all relevant evidence, including CCTV footage, and present its findings to the cabinet.

Moving towards other goals of the province, CM Afridi said that creating an interest-free Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is one of his government’s top priorities. He added that a policy is being formulated to eliminate usury from the province and introduce Islamic financial and investment systems to encourage ethical economic growth.

The chief minister also noted that the provincial assembly had unanimously passed a resolution expressing concern over the alleged mistreatment of the PTI founder and his wife in jail. Afridi said he wishes to meet Imran Khan personally to seek policy guidance.

Sohail Afridi reiterated that all government reforms and decisions will be made in consultation with elected representatives. He directed that no one will be allowed to conduct personal publicity using government funds.

He also instructed the cabinet members to ensure merit-based and fully transparent decision-making and called for a comprehensive review of all provincial laws to identify shortcomings and recommend necessary amendments.