Gandapur vows to follow Imran Khan’s order on civil disobedience

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has vowed unwavering support for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, stating that his government will follow every directive from the party leaders, including his call for civil disobedience. 

Speaking to international media representatives at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar, Gandapur criticised the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government, claiming the law and order situation worsened since when it came to power. “During Imran Khan’s tenure, the security situation was stable, but since the PDM took over, institutions have been misused to target the PTI,” he said. 

Gandapur highlighted the challenges his government faced upon taking office, including deteriorating law and order situation in the province. “We have prioritised improving these situations. In some areas, the police have taken the lead, and we are strengthening the police force in merged districts,” he said. 

Achievements and Governance 

The KP chief minister lauded his government’s performance, asserting that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leads other provinces in governance and development. “We achieved the IMF target that no other province has met so far. In the last nine months, we increased our revenue by 44 per cent,” he said. 

He pointed out progress in governance, including the release of record development funds within six months and the empowerment of citizens through initiatives like the People’s Complaints Portal.

Gandapur also announced the establishment of a specialised mining company and the development of provincial power transmission lines, describing these as crucial steps for the province’s advancement. 

Security and Border Concerns

Discussing regional security, Gandapur emphasised the importance of dialogue with Afghanistan. “We have raised this in provincial and federal apex committee meetings. With the world recognizing Afghanistan’s government, Pakistan must also engage in meaningful talks,” he said. 

He criticized the federal government for its lack of serious action, despite the province bearing the brunt of cross-border terrorism. “We have a long border with Afghanistan, and it’s our province that suffers the most. Our sacrifices should be acknowledged nationwide,” he asserted. 

Gandapur also commended the sacrifices of police and security forces, noting that they were fighting terrorism on the front lines. “Despite being directly affected by terrorism, we are preventing its spread. In the southern districts alone, several terrorists have been eliminated in the past month,” he said. 

Commitment to PTI’s Agenda 

Addressing the ongoing political unrest, Gandapur reaffirmed loyalty to Imran Khan’s directives. “If Khan calls for civil disobedience, we will implement it in its true spirit, but clarity is needed on how to proceed. Once that’s provided, we will act accordingly,” he explained. 

He also expressed concerns over missing PTI workers, revealing that 68 party members had sustained bullet injuries. “We demand Khan’s release and the return of our stolen mandate,” he said. 

Gandapur further claimed that Punjab police had targeted PTI workers with live ammunition. “We have made unmatched sacrifices for democracy and true freedom. The bullets fired at us and the injuries we suffered are a testament to our resolve,” he concluded.