KP Governor Condemns CM Afridi’s Remarks About Security Forces

PESHAWAR, November 8: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi on Friday strongly condemned recent remarks by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi that criticised security forces and counterterrorism operations in the province.

Speaking to reporters outside Adiala Jail a day earlier, CM Afridi alleged that security personnel had brought dogs into mosques during operations, calling the act a violation of the sanctity of places of worship. “When we told them they were violating the sanctity of the mosque, they said, ‘you and these dogs are no different,’” the chief minister claimed.

Reacting to the statement, Governor Kundi posted on X that he “condemned any rhetoric that undermines the honour and sacrifice of the armed forces.” He said that the country’s security personnel had “laid down their lives to protect the province” and that questioning their intent in “sensational terms” only harmed morale and public trust.

Kundi stressed that intelligence-based operations were essential for maintaining peace and were conducted solely to ensure public safety. “Political debate must not cross into actions or words that weaken our security institutions,” he wrote, urging the chief minister to exercise restraint and prioritise provincial unity over political differences.

The governor added that all political forces must stand behind the armed forces to preserve peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which has witnessed a resurgence in terrorist attacks targeting law enforcement agencies and security personnel.

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The Khyber Union of Journalists (KUJ) also expressed concern over the chief minister’s remarks, terming them “condemnable and irresponsible.” In a statement, KUJ President Kashifuddin Syed said that dragging religious places into political disputes “hurts religious sentiments” and “creates mistrust” toward state institutions.

Separately, Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Maulana Tahir Ashrafi called CM Afridi’s comments “misleading,” saying that the Pakistan Army “is the protector of mosques and madrasas.” He added that the army’s foundation was built on “faith and sacrifice” and reiterated its role in safeguarding the nation against terrorism.

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