No plans for governor’s rule in KP, confirms defence minister Khawaja Asif
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has clarified that the federal government has no plans to impose governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), dismissing recent speculations. His statement comes amid heightened tensions between the Centre and the PTI-led provincial government.
Speaking at a press conference, Asif criticized the KP administration for its alleged misuse of state machinery during the PTI’s recent protests in Islamabad. “PTI launched a third onslaught on the Centre, which was thwarted,” he said, accusing the provincial government of using official weapons and equipment against federal institutions. He also called on KP authorities to prioritize law and order in the province, particularly in conflict-hit areas like Parachinar.
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The remarks follow discussions within the federal cabinet about the possible imposition of governor’s rule in KP. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah recently acknowledged that the option was deliberated but deferred due to a lack of consensus.
Addressing PTI’s claims of civilian casualties during the Islamabad protests, Asif dismissed them as baseless. “Security personnel were martyred during PTI’s protest, but there is no evidence of any citizen’s death,” he stated. The PTI had earlier alleged that 12 citizens were killed during the demonstrations, a claim denied by government authorities. Officials reported that five security personnel, including three Rangers and two Punjab police officers, lost their lives during the unrest.
Separately, ongoing tribal clashes in KP’s District Kurram have added to the province’s challenges. Police confirmed that 124 people have been killed and 178 injured in the violence, which has now entered its tenth day.
Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan also weighed in, stating that the PPP does not support the idea of governor’s rule in KP. He urged the PTI to reconsider its approach and warned that any formation of a “militant wing” by the party could lead to a ban.
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