Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi said on Friday that the lack of development in tribal districts is due to the federal government’s failure to release funds.
Addressing the provincial cabinet, Afridi stated that funds promised under the NFC Award for the fiscal year 2025-26 have not yet been released, causing severe financial difficulties for the province. He said ongoing and proposed development projects in tribal districts have been badly affected as a result.
The Chief Minister added that despite limited resources, the provincial government is making every effort to provide relief to residents of tribal districts. However, without federal cooperation, it is difficult to effectively carry out development initiatives.
Afridi also criticized the federal and Punjab governments, alleging repeated inhumane and undemocratic treatment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, his wife, and sisters, calling it contrary to democratic values. He condemned the use of toxic chemicals from water cannons during recent political incidents, which caused illness among political workers and leadership, describing it as a serious and condemnable act.
He urged the federal and Punjab governments to end political vengeance and focus on the economy, noting that GDP growth, agricultural output, and industrial development indicators are declining. “Instead of focusing on public welfare, the federal government is targeting Imran Khan and the PTI,” he said.
During the cabinet meeting, Afridi instructed ministers to conduct field visits to their assigned districts every 15 days to restore public trust and ensure effective checks and balances. He also announced that a detailed briefing on the provincial government’s Good Governance Roadmap will be presented in the next cabinet session, including progress reports from the Chief Secretary.
