Pakistan ( The cow news digital ) PESHAWAR / ISLAMABAD: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has strongly criticized the federal government, accusing it of continuously sidelining the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its leadership, particularly party founder Imran Khan.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad alongside other PTI leaders, Afridi said that the party has been “pushed against the wall” for the past three years. He claimed that no form of oppression or political pressure has been left untried against Imran Khan and his party.
He also raised concerns over the sudden cancellation of a scheduled high-level meeting, which, according to him, was meant to discuss national and international crises. Afridi alleged that important decisions are being taken behind closed doors without proper consultation or transparency.
The Chief Minister stated that PTI’s provincial government had decided to attend the meeting in good faith, but the abrupt cancellation reflected what he called a lack of seriousness in addressing national issues. He further claimed that such decisions could have long-term consequences not only for one political group but for the entire country.
Criticizing federal policies, Afridi alleged excessive government spending, including reported plans to purchase expensive aircraft worth billions of rupees. He argued that when key institutions such as the judiciary, National Accountability Bureau (NAB), and media are weakened, governance and accountability suffer significantly.
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He also expressed concern over Pakistan’s economic condition, stating that GDP growth has declined below 5%, exports are under pressure, agricultural output is falling, and inflation has made life increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens. According to him, petrol prices have reached record levels, further burdening the public.
Afridi warned that continued instability and poor governance could deepen the country’s challenges, adding that leadership transitions should be based on accountability and national interest rather than political confrontation.
He concluded by urging the authorities to ensure inclusive decision-making and to involve all political stakeholders in matters affecting Pakistan’s future, stressing that ignoring public mandate could lead to further political and economic uncertainty.
