Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sohail Afridi, has assured the people of his province that the government is committed to performing better than ever before, emphasizing that all policies will be designed purely for public welfare. Speaking at the Peshawar Beautification Ceremony, he addressed key economic, political, and administrative challenges faced by the province while promising transparent governance and improved service delivery.

Peshawar as the Provincial Capital — A Shared Responsibility

Beginning his address, Chief Minister Afridi highlighted that Peshawar is not just an administrative center but the face of the entire province. He stressed the need for collective responsibility in beautifying and modernizing the city. According to him, the capital should reflect the culture, resilience, and aspirations of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Afridi expressed that the government aims to transform Peshawar into one of the most vibrant and aesthetically advanced cities of Pakistan, emphasizing that development projects will not be cosmetic but long-term and sustainable.

KP’s Contributions and Sacrifices: “Our people have paid the highest price”

While discussing the challenges faced by the province, the chief minister recalled that the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have historically made the greatest sacrifices, especially in the fight against terrorism. He urged the federal government to recognize these sacrifices not only symbolically but through concrete financial compensation.

Afridi pointed out that KP’s share in Net Hydel Profit (NHP) remains unpaid to a large extent. He stated:

• PKR 2,200 billion in hydel profit dues are still outstanding.
• KP’s tribal districts are owed PKR 700 billion, out of which PKR 500 billion remain unpaid.

These unpaid funds, he stressed, are crucial for the development of infrastructure, education, health, and security in the region. He urged the central government to release KP’s pending dues without delay.

NFC Share: “We are entitled to 19.4% — stop treating KP like a stepchild”

In a bold statement, Afridi criticized the attitude of the federal government towards the province. He asserted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s rightful share under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award is 19.4%, yet the province continues to be underfunded.

“We expect Islamabad to fulfill its constitutional responsibility,” Afridi said. “The people of KP deserve fairness, not stepmotherly treatment.”

His remarks reflected deep frustration over perceived neglect, especially considering KP’s ongoing security challenges and economic pressure from hosting millions of Afghan refugees.

Governance Priorities: More Delivery, Zero Exemption, and Public-Centered Policy

Chief Minister Afridi repeatedly emphasized that this term will be performance-driven:

1. Enhanced Delivery

“This time, we will deliver more than ever before,” he promised, suggesting that the government will adopt a result-oriented approach in all departments.

2. No Exemption in Law

Afridi stated that no individual or institution will be given immunity or special treatment under the law. Accountability and transparency, he insisted, are the foundations for rebuilding public trust.

3. Public Welfare Policies

He assured citizens that policy-making will focus entirely on public needs — including infrastructure, employment, social protection, and energy management.

According to Afridi, the goal is to create an administration that is people-friendly, efficient, and responsive.

Commitment to Founding Vision and Political Struggle

Afridi reiterated that the provincial government will continue to work according to the vision of their political founder (a reference to the leadership identity of their party). He stressed:

“People should remain satisfied. Through consistent political struggle, we will work in line with our founder’s vision.”

By highlighting political consistency, Afridi intended to assure loyal supporters that despite the national political turbulence, KP’s government remains ideologically stable and committed to reform.

Beautification of Peshawar — Beyond Aesthetics

The event originally aimed at launching beautification initiatives for Peshawar. Afridi explained that:

• Roads will be redesigned for smoother traffic flow.
• Green belts and public spaces will be expanded.
• Historical sites will be preserved and restored.
• City-wide cleanup programs will be strengthened.
• Urban planning will adopt modern and eco-friendly models.

This transformation, he said, will not only improve the city’s visual appeal but also positively influence tourism, trade, and investment.