K-P Chief Minister Speaks Out on Prison Conditions and Financial Rights
In a recent cabinet meeting, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi addressed some serious issues affecting the region, making headlines for both his advocacy and proposed initiatives. With winter’s biting cold making jail conditions even harsher, he condemned the unjust imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi. Afridi didn’t hold back, labeling the use of water cannons against Khan’s sisters as "deeply shameful." His passionate remarks highlighted not only the treatment of political figures but a broader concern for human rights.
During the meeting, Afridi also shared exciting updates on the province’s financial rights. He announced the establishment of a subcommittee during the National Finance Commission (NFC) meeting. This group, led by the Provincial Adviser on Finance, aims to push for the province’s deserved financial allocations. Did you know that while the merged districts were promised a whopping Rs100 billion annually for development, only Rs168 billion has been disbursed over the last seven years? That leaves a staggering Rs532 billion unpaid! Afridi emphasized the need to explore all political and legal avenues to rectify this injustice.
On a constructive note, Afridi called for merit-based, transparent appointments in the government. He directed newly appointed secretaries to prioritize public welfare projects, with all departments required to submit their proposals for the 2026-27 Annual Development Program by mid-February. This forward-thinking approach aims to uplift the province by focusing on projects that genuinely benefit the community.
The cabinet session also saw the approval of an E-Transfer Policy 2025 for teachers under the Elementary and Secondary Education Department. Inspired by Imran Khan’s vision, this policy promotes transparency and merit in teacher postings. It considers factors like service length and annual performance, allowing teachers to concentrate on what they do best—teaching!
Moreover, the cabinet allocated over Rs2 billion for educational improvements, including infrastructure upgrades and scholarships via the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Education Endowment Fund. Other noteworthy decisions included financial support for healthcare facilities, ensuring that essential services remain robust and well-funded. This commitment is crucial, with allocations directed towards institutions like the Khyber Institute of Child Health and the Lady Reading Hospital.
With all these initiatives on the table, there seems to be a fresh wave of optimism for Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. The focus on education, healthcare, and financial rights demonstrates a commitment to improving the lives of citizens.
If you want to stay updated on the developments in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa or share your thoughts on these changes, feel free to connect with Pro21st. Engaging in conversations like this is vital for us to collectively work towards positive change!
