New KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi Declares: “I Am the Champion of Protest Politics — I Will Die in the Love of Imran”
PESHAWAR: Newly elected **Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)**, **Sohail Khan Afridi**, delivered a passionate first address on the floor of the provincial assembly, emphasizing merit, equality, and development in tribal districts as the core pillars of his government’s agenda.
Afridi, who hails from the tribal belt, said he rose to power through hard work and public trust rather than family connections or political dynasties. “No one in my family is involved in politics, and there is no Bhutto, Zardari, or Sharif attached to my name. I have reached this position through my own effort and ability,” he declared.
Proudly identifying himself as a **Pakistani and a Pashtun**, Afridi said his top priority would be the **rapid development of tribal districts**, which have long been neglected. He thanked the assembly members for their support, pledging to reduce the gap between rich and poor and promote social and economic justice.
Afridi made it clear that he did not reach this position through “any slip of paper or conspiracy,” stressing that he has no lust for power. “I consider this post a duty, not a privilege,” he said. “If anyone thinks I will abandon my ideology for the throne, they are mistaken.”
Paying tribute to **former Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur**, Afridi said Gandapur had twice resigned, and despite objections from the Governor, his political sacrifice deserved respect.
In a fiery statement, Afridi declared, “I am the champion of protest politics. I fear nothing. I will die in the love of Imran.” He reaffirmed his loyalty to **PTI founder Imran Khan**, promising to work for the **immediate release of Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi, and all political prisoners**.
Afridi said he was entrusted with leadership at a difficult time for the province. “I have been given responsibility when the province is going through a crisis, but I assure the people I will remain true to who I am,” he said. “No one should think that the comforts of office will make me forget my purpose.”
The new chief minister also urged the **federal government to review its Afghan policy**, noting that the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had suffered the most from terrorism. “Our people are still being martyred in the fight against terrorism. The federation must take the provincial government, elders, and tribal communities into confidence,” he emphasized.
Concluding his speech, Afridi called for **dialogue and mutual understanding** to resolve national challenges, saying his government would strive to honor public trust and ensure peace and stability across the province.
