Islamabad: PM’s Coordinator for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Affairs, Ikhtiar Wali Khan Tuesday criticized Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi over his statement, urging him to set aside personal political loyalties with Khan and respect the national narrative shaped by years of sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.
While speaking to a local news channel, Ikhtiar Wali Khan questioned CM Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Afridi regarding his remarks on Afghanistan’s alleged involvement in terrorism.
Wali asked Afridi to clarify whether he was aware of Afghanistan’s role in such activities, citing past incidents such as the APS attack and the Meena Bazar tragedy, where the nation lost precious lives and offered to provide further details on the matter.
Ikhtiar Wali Khan condemned the ‘irresponsible remarks’ of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, terming them dubious and stating that personal political loyalties or ‘Ishq-e-Imran’ must never come at the cost of the national interest.
He urged Afridi to rise above partisan considerations and act with political maturity in matters affecting the country’s core values.
Wali emphasized that the national narrative is non-negotiable, particularly in view of the sacrifices made by the nation in the fight against terrorism.
He stressed that all leaders must uphold and protect this narrative, placing the country above individual or party allegiances.
Responding to a query, Ikhtiar Wali Khan said that Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Afridi was himself involved in the 9th May incident and that evidence of his involvement exists.
He stated that Afridi should step down immediately, refrain from street movements and focus on his official duties instead of engaging in partisan politics or ‘Ishq-e-Khan’ loyalties.
Wali emphasized that such irresponsible remarks and political maneuvering undermine the national narrative, which remains non-negotiable.
He urged all leaders to prioritize the country’s interest, dialogue, uphold accountability and place national welfare above personal or party loyalties.