Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister Expresses Strong Protest Over Treatment in Punjab
In a striking move that’s captured public attention, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has officially lodged a protest with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Afridi alleges that he experienced deliberate humiliation during his recent visit to Lahore, which he views as a violation of both constitutional dignity and the respect that should exist between provinces.
Writing a detailed two-page letter, Afridi emphasized that the treatment he received was not an accidental oversight, but rather a calculated act aimed at undermining his position. "What transpired amounted to a direct affront to a constitutional office and damaged the spirit of respect between federating units," he wrote, underlining the severity of the situation.
The K-P chief minister recounted his visit, stating that the discourteous and hostile reception he faced fell drastically short of established constitutional norms. Afridi pointed out that excessive security measures during his stay—including intrusive sweeps and closures of public places like food streets—sent a message not of cooperation but intimidation. "Such measures were neither proportionate nor warranted," he asserted, expressing concern over the impact on ordinary citizens in Lahore.
Adding another layer to the incident, Afridi complained about a "coordinated and malicious social media campaign" that followed his visit, which involved defamatory insinuations linking him to narcotics. He condemned this tactic, labeling it as unacceptable and an undermining of the integrity of officeholders. “Allegations of such gravity require evidence, not innuendo,” he argued, highlighting the seriousness of character assassination in the political arena.
Afridi’s protest serves as a crucial reminder of the need for mutual respect and understanding between different provincial governments. His concerns extend beyond personal affront; they signal a deeper problem of eroding trust and federal harmony. "Such actions undermine public trust in provincial institutions and set dangerous precedents," he cautioned.
Meanwhile, Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan announced a committee will investigate the tumultuous scenes during Afridi’s visit, noting that violence and chaos must be addressed comprehensively.
The developments in this matter point to an urgent need for dialogue and accountability among provincial leaders. It’s vital for the health of our democracy and inter-provincial relationships that all parties engage in respectful and constructive interactions.
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