Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has alleged that Imran Khan has been kept in isolation in Adiala jail since November 4. He shared these concerns during a press conference in Peshawar after a parliamentary party meeting. His remarks added fresh tension to an already sensitive political situation.
Afridi stated that he had attempted to meet the former prime minister several times. Yet, authorities denied access each time. He said that even after approaching the high court, the meeting did not take place. According to him, the situation has raised alarming questions about the conditions under which the PTI founder is being held.
Repeated Denial of Access Sparks Protests
After failing to meet the incarcerated leader, Afridi held a 16-hour sit-in outside Adiala Road on November 27. He said the refusal to allow a meeting is creating frustration among party members. The PTI in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has now announced a protest outside the Islamabad High Court on December 2. After that demonstration, Afridi said they plan to go again to Adiala jail.
The chief minister claimed these repeated restrictions appear to be attempts to “push us towards confrontation”. However, he stressed that the party would not respond with hostility.
Afridi Calls Stop-List Inclusion Discriminatory
Afridi also criticised the move to add his name to the stop list. He said the decision was discriminatory and questioned why a sitting provincial chief minister was facing such restrictions. He said the step had damaged trust between the federation and the province.
KP to Participate in NFC Meeting Despite Tensions
During the parliamentary party meeting, KP leadership decided to take part in the upcoming National Finance Commission meeting. Afridi said the province would defend its rights, especially those belonging to the merged districts. He noted that KP had not received its full share under the NFC Award since 2018.
He said the federal government owes KP Rs1,350 billion under the NFC Award for the past seven years. Because of this, he called for stronger engagement with political parties to ensure the province’s financial rights are protected.
Emphasis on Political Dialogue and Provincial Rights
Afridi highlighted that collective action is necessary for securing the province’s interests. He stressed that all political parties must join hands to present a unified stance. According to him, the struggle for the province’s rightful NFC share requires broad consensus and continued dialogue.
The KP chief minister reiterated that the province remains committed to achieving financial justice while avoiding any path that could trigger confrontation.
