Emergency in KP Principally Decided, Claims Analyst Muneeb Farooq; Governor Kundi Warns PTI

ISLAMABAD:Senior political analyst Muneeb Farooq has claimed that a decision in principle has been made to impose an emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, alleging that the federal government and powerful quarters have concluded that continuing with Chief Minister Sohail Afridi is no longer possible.

Speaking on Geo News, Farooq claimed that discussions about a possible major step had been underway for the past 10 days. He said consultations had reportedly continued over the possible consequences and administrative arrangements.

According to the analyst, any such move could have significant political and administrative implications, including consequences for Pakistan’s democratic structure. He said it remained unclear whether governor’s rule or an emergency would apply only to border districts or extend to other parts of the province.

Farooq also expressed concern over the provincial government’s authority and said the deteriorating political atmosphere and reports of meetings had fuelled speculation about an imminent decision.

He maintained that the possible imposition of governor’s rule or an emergency was not directly linked to PTI’s long march. He further claimed that Sohail Afridi might not be able to retain his position as chief minister. These remarks represent the analyst’s assessment; no official decision confirming the imposition of an emergency was cited in the report.

### Governor Kundi Challenges PTI Over Counterterrorism Stance

Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi challenged PTI and the provincial government to issue a clear statement condemning terrorism and expressing support for security forces fighting militant groups.

Addressing a news conference, Kundi accused PTI of failing to speak firmly against militants operating from Afghanistan. He alleged that the party had provided political facilitation to such groups, including during elections.

The governor said security personnel, police officers and members of the Pashtun community were bearing the consequences of terrorist violence. He urged PTI leaders to publicly stand with the security forces and condemn attacks against them.

Kundi questioned why PTI had not issued a stronger statement against militant groups and Afghanistan in connection with the security situation.

His allegations against PTI were presented during the news conference and were not independently substantiated in the report.

### Kundi Issues Warning Over Possible PTI Protest

The governor also issued a warning to PTI leaders and Chief Minister Sohail Afridi over the possibility of confrontational protests.

Referring to statements by PTI leaders encouraging their supporters to continue demonstrations in their absence, Kundi said the provincial governor’s residence was capable of being protected and warned that authorities would respond to any attempt to create unrest.

He said he preferred practical action over verbal exchanges and warned PTI against repeating incidents similar to those of May 9, 2023, when violent protests followed the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan.

Kundi added that PTI leaders should consider the potential consequences of confrontational politics.

The statements come amid heightened political tensions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with the provincial government facing criticism over its counterterrorism policy and speculation continuing over possible federal intervention.