WEB DESK – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has given the federal government a 15-day deadline to address the province’s outstanding dues and severe load shedding issues.
Gandapur’s Warning to the Federal Government
In a strong statement, CM Gandapur highlighted the resilience of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s people, comparing their potential response to recent events in Kashmir. “We saw your strength in Kashmir; the government was deflated in a day in front of the Kashmiris. What will happen if the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa come out?” he questioned.
Threat of Drastic Measures
Gandapur emphasized Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s significant control over the nation’s electricity supply and hinted at drastic measures if the federal government fails to act. “Khyber Pakhtunkhwa holds the power to turn the country’s electricity on and off. Sit down and solve the issues, otherwise calling you irresponsible would be an understatement. If our concerns are not heard, we will take over Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) offices in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.”
Financial Demands
CM Gandapur demanded an immediate allocation of 50 billion rupees from the federal government within two months, asserting this as a right rather than a request. He claimed the province had been shortchanged by 300 billion rupees.
Frustration Over Electoral Constraints
Expressing frustration over electoral constraints and abductions, Gandapur stated, “We are ready to open constituencies, is the opposition ready? We are being oppressed, but we will still fulfill our duty.”
Burden of IMF Conditions
Gandapur highlighted the province’s burden under IMF conditions, which require a 92 billion rupee surplus contribution to the federation. “Will the governments of Punjab and Sindh meet these conditions?” he asked, suggesting that political parties would regret their treatment of PTI and that stolen mandates would eventually be restored.
Criticism of Federal Government
Gandapur criticized the federal government for not providing due rights to the tribal districts. “We will not tolerate this in silence; if asking for our rights is considered irresponsible, then so be it.”
Threat Over Load Shedding
Gandapur decried prolonged load shedding periods, some lasting up to 22 hours in various cities. He issued a direct threat to take control of the PESCO head office if the electricity issue remains unresolved within the given timeframe. “If the electricity issue is not resolved in 15 days, I will control the power switch.”
Call for Fair Treatment
Gandapur also criticized the indiscriminate taxation on non-filers, calling for fair treatment of the province’s residents. “The province’s matters will be resolved within the province itself. I will not tolerate the word ‘thief’ for my people.”
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