KP CM Sohail Afridi criticises PIA sale, questions govt’s claims on debt reduction

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has accused the federal government of repeatedly victimising his party, saying the country cannot function if its priorities are centred on pressuring former prime minister Imran Khan.

Speaking at a press conference at the Punjab Assembly on Friday, Afridi said he had come to Lahore to meet party organisers. He alleged that police personnel behaved rudely at Chakri Interchange and carried out arrests, which he described as continued “fascism” against party workers.

He criticised what he called a “fake government”, claiming that major industries were leaving the country and public insecurity was increasing.

Referring to past claims about repaying national debt, Afridi said those who had spoken of selling clothes to clear loans had instead sold Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

The KP chief minister said decisions were being imposed behind closed doors and economic growth was declining. He added that restrictions on meetings with PTI founder Imran Khan showed misplaced priorities.

“If the aim is to threaten and subdue him, the country will not move forward,” he said. Sohail Afridi also alleged disrespectful behaviour towards his delegation, adding that he would leave Lahore “enough manners” for others to learn from.

Reacting to Afridi’s visit, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari said he was welcome in Lahore, describing the city as “Pakistan’s Europe”.

She remarked that he should observe Punjab’s development, take photographs, and implement similar measures in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Bukhari added that Afridi was not a bigger leader than Imran Khan and questioned public response to PTI’s past protest calls. She said guests would be treated with hospitality but should also behave as guests.

Meanwhile, Federal Minister Amir Muqam criticised Sohail Afridi, saying he should “show some shame” and return home.