Key Takeaways
- Sohail Afridi reiterates opposition to military operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
- The PTI long march, launched on Oct 4, marks a week with its final destination uncertain.
- Afridi refuses to sign any document under pressure, citing principles over political pressure.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has reaffirmed his stance against any military operations in the province, maintaining his opposition as the PTI long march, launched on October 4, marks its one-week anniversary.
Addressing a large gathering in Charsadda, Afridi stated, 'I was asked to sign, but I refused,' emphasizing his unwillingness to compromise on his principles under pressure.
The long march, initially planned to reach Islamabad, has remained within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the PTI is in power, and its final destination remains uncertain as the KP CM has yet to announce the plan after October 11.
Afridi's position on national security and the Kashmir issue is clear, he said, adding that important national matters should be addressed based on principles rather than political pressure.
He accused the federal government of attempting to persuade him to agree to certain decisions, but he has declined, highlighting his opposition to the federal government's policies on counterterrorism and Afghanistan since his election in October 2025.
The PTI leader stressed the need to protect public rights, democratic values, and the people's mandate, urging party workers to remain united and maintain discipline in their political struggle.
Afridi referred to the 'threats' of the imposition of governor's rule or emergency, stating that the matter 'had gone beyond seats and power' and that he was ready to 'sacrifice' his seat for Imran and Pakhtuns.
The chief minister highlighted that KP had suffered immense losses in the fight against terrorism, emphasizing that the sacrifices made by its residents should not be forgotten and that their concerns regarding peace, stability, and fundamental rights deserved serious attention.
The federal government, citing differences over the counterterrorism policy, is considering the option of imposing an emergency or governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, despite the PTI's launch of the march despite warnings from the Centre.
I was asked to sign, but I refused.
Sohail Afridi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister
