KP CM Urges Federal Review of Counter-Terror Strategy
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa leadership argues that diplomatic isolation of Afghanistan has exacerbated security threats, prompting a call for a fundamental shift in national anti-terror policy.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mohammad Sohail Afridi has publicly called for a comprehensive review of Pakistan’s anti-terrorism policy, arguing that current diplomatic approaches have failed to curb rising violence in the region. During a visit to Kohat following a significant security operation, Afridi suggested that the prolonged closure of the border with Afghanistan has disrupted trade and economic activity, creating conditions that fuel instability.
The chief minister attributed recent escalations in attacks partly to what he described as an unsuccessful foreign policy maintained for over two decades. He contrasted the current situation with previous periods of relative peace, asserting that improved bilateral relations had historically contributed to a decline in terrorist incidents. This perspective aligns with reports from GN auto geopolitics/terrorism: counter terrorism, which highlight the interplay between diplomatic posture and on-ground security dynamics.
Economic impact of border closure
Afridi stated that the suspension of cross-border trade has resulted in losses exceeding eight billion rupees for the province in the last financial year. He warned that these economic restrictions would continue to affect the tribal districts during the current fiscal year, further straining local livelihoods. The chief minister emphasized that the isolation of the region has not only hindered commerce but also limited the ability of authorities to monitor and secure border areas effectively.
Increased provincial security funding
In response to the security challenges, the provincial government has allocated an additional 35 billion rupees beyond the standard Annual Development Programme to strengthen police capabilities. According to Afridi, this funding is intended to provide modern weapons, equipment, and infrastructure upgrades. He noted that the overall police budget has more than doubled, rising from approximately 81 billion rupees to 190 billion rupees, reflecting a significant shift in resource allocation toward internal security.
Political tensions and policy criticism
The chief minister also criticized federal institutions, alleging that attention has been disproportionately directed toward restricting the political activities of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf rather than focusing on counter-terrorism efforts. He maintained that the proposed provincial counterterrorism policy is designed to protect national interests rather than serve any single political party. Afridi claimed that if the policy were implemented effectively, peace could be restored within one hundred days, highlighting the urgency of his proposed measures.
