World ( The cow news digital ) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has said that protests will be held “at all costs” in support of demands for a meeting with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, issuing a strong warning to security authorities during a public address in Peshawar.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the foundation stone of the Warsak Road (Ring Road Phase-II) flyover, Afridi said that if any force opens fire on protesters, “the responsibility will be on them,” adding that those who order such action would also be held accountable. His remarks came amid rising political tensions and planned demonstrations in the province.
The chief minister stated that the provincial government would proceed with its protest plans regardless of pressure, emphasizing that peaceful political activity is a constitutional right. He further said he would be the first to “stand in front” if any violence occurs during protests.
Afridi also criticized federal policies, alleging that decisions made in “closed rooms” had contributed to worsening security conditions in the province. He claimed that tens of thousands of people had lost their lives due to what he described as flawed counterterrorism strategies over the years, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the former tribal districts.
He added that the province had been treated as a “testing ground” for policy decisions and accused authorities of neglecting the region’s development needs. Afridi stated that 2026 and 2027 would be focused on peace and development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, adding that his government would no longer accept decisions made without consultation.
During his speech, the chief minister also highlighted ongoing development projects in Peshawar, noting that billions of rupees are being invested in infrastructure upgrades under the Peshawar Revitalization Plan. The 800-meter-long flyover project, estimated at 3.2 billion rupees, is expected to be completed within 180 days.
Afridi further criticized federal authorities over power and gas supply issues, alleging discriminatory treatment against the province, including prolonged load-shedding and unequal resource distribution.
The remarks have added to an already tense political environment, with authorities expected to monitor planned protests closely. No official response from security agencies regarding Afridi’s statement was immediately available.
