ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday underscored the importance of close cooperation between the federal government and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) administration during his first meeting with Chief Minister Mohammad Sohail Afridi.
The meeting took place at the Prime Minister’s House at the premier’s invitation, with both leaders discussing issues ranging from KP’s finances to counterterrorism efforts. Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah and Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Amir Muqam were also present.
According to a statement reported by PTV News, PM Shehbaz stressed that “close and effective communication between the Centre and the provinces is indispensable for national progress and public service.” He assured CM Afridi of the federal government’s cooperation, within its jurisdiction, for KP’s development projects, infrastructure, education, health, and employment initiatives.
The prime minister also highlighted the provincial government’s role in maintaining peace and law and order, noting that “efforts to establish law and order are unavoidable” and urging KP to strengthen its departments to counter terrorism. He affirmed that both federal and provincial governments would continue joint efforts to combat militancy.
“KP is an important unit of the federation. The Centre will continue its full efforts in accordance with its jurisdiction for the public’s prosperity,” PM Shehbaz added, stressing that national unity, stability, and development could be achieved effectively through mutual consultation and collaboration.
CM Afridi highlights pending funds and security concerns
Speaking to the media after the meeting, CM Afridi described the interaction as a “demand of his role” and said he expressed condolences over recent attacks in Balochistan. He reiterated that terrorism has no province, country, or religion, and should be condemned universally.
The KP chief minister noted that discussions included pending federal funds, including allocations under the National Finance Commission (NFC), Chashma Right Bank Canal (CRBC), Net Hydel Profit (NHP), and other dues. Afridi said PM Shehbaz issued directives to Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal to meet KP’s Adviser on Finance Muzzammil Aslam to resolve the issues. He added that follow-up meetings would be held on development and counterterrorism matters, and decisions taken would be made public.
Addressing criticism over alleged corruption in KP, Afridi said the IMF had issued a “charge-sheet” against the federal government for Rs5,300 billion, making the Rs4 billion allegations against KP comparatively minor. He stressed that objecting to this amount would dismiss the sacrifices of people in Tirah, Kurram, and Bajaur.
Muqam underscores need for coordination
Minister Amir Muqam, speaking after the meeting, welcomed the dialogue, calling for “excellent coordination” between the Centre and the province. He emphasised keeping politics aside, particularly in the fight against terrorism, and said pending fund differences should be resolved through consultation. He clarified that no political issues, including matters concerning PTI founder Imran Khan, were discussed.
Outstanding federal dues
Since taking office in October last year, CM Afridi has repeatedly highlighted the federal government’s delay in releasing constitutionally guaranteed funds for KP, particularly for the merged districts under the NFC. According to Afridi, KP is entitled to Rs658.4 billion but has received only Rs604 billion, leaving a shortfall of Rs54.4 billion. He described the shortfall as creating an “acute fiscal and governance crisis” for the province.