Governor Kundi warns provincial government ahead of potential ‘governor rule’

WEB DESK: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has indicated that the federal government is considering imposing governor rule in the province if the current administration fails to effectively manage governance and security. Speaking to the media, he stressed that the option of governor rule exists under the constitution but is intended as a last resort.

“The provincial government still has the opportunity to run the system efficiently. Governor rule is only imposed when the provincial administration is unable to manage affairs,” Kundi said, highlighting ongoing challenges in the province. He acknowledged that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police are brave but lack adequate resources to tackle terrorism effectively, noting that security forces continue to sacrifice lives to prevent attacks and have successfully foiled several militant operations.

Kundi warned that without cooperation from the federal government, no province can function smoothly. He urged Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and the provincial cabinet, formed under emergency conditions and currently consisting of eight remaining ministers, to collaborate with federal authorities to address administrative and security issues.

The governor also welcomed Afridi’s decision to attend the upcoming National Finance Commission (NFC) meeting on December 4, describing it as a positive step for provincial-federal coordination. He emphasised that the real responsibility lies with the provincial government; improved performance could prevent drastic measures. Kundi further remarked that federal intervention, including governor rule, is undesirable and should be avoided if the province can maintain law and order.

The governor’s statements come amid concerns over deteriorating security and administrative challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, underscoring tensions between provincial authorities and the federal government.