Mardan – Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Monday said that former chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur left the province in ruins, gifting it with terrorism, corruption, and mismanagement. He added that Gandapur mistook him for a PTI worker, whereas his role is purely constitutional and non-partisan.
Speaking to the media at the residence of former district nazim and PPP leader Asad Kashmiri, Governor Kundi said he has repeatedly clarified that he serves as a bridge between the provincial and federal governments. He said that he has received no official information regarding any constitutional amendments or drafts, adding that “everyone seems to have their own draft in their pocket.”
The Governor said that the current Chief Minister, Sohail Afridi, is new to the position and should be given time to introduce reforms and make effective decisions for the province’s progress. He remarked that the former chief minister had left behind numerous challenges that would take time to resolve.
Kundi emphasized that public office is not anyone’s personal property but a trust of the party, asserting his readiness to work with all stakeholders to continue the province’s development process. He added that the Prime Minister has assured progress on the NFC Award, expressing hope that the commitment would soon materialize.
Responding to a question, the Governor said he was unaware of the reasons behind the removal of his city’s chief minister, suggesting that perhaps he was playing the role of “Mir Jafar or Mir Sadiq.” However, Kundi stressed that collective efforts are necessary to put Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on the path of development.
During the visit, the Governor met with delegations from various sectors, including the Mardan Chamber of Commerce and Industry led by President Zahir Shah, Small Traders’ Association President Ihsan Bacha, and Contractors Association President Akbar Ali Kashmiri.
Business representatives briefed the Governor on local issues, including load-shedding and lack of representation in SMEDA. They also informed him about a €7 million green energy agreement signed with Ukraine and sought support from the Governor House.
Governor Kundi assured full cooperation for the Ukraine energy project and pledged to raise their concerns with the federal government and relevant authorities. He said the Governor House would also assist in resolving issues related to provincial departments.
The Governor emphasized the importance of strong and active party organizations, saying that both office-bearers and workers are equally valuable. He said that all those working for the mission of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and the vision of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari are united like members of one family. Governor Kundi added that under the leadership of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the PPP is committed to steering Pakistan toward progress and prosperity.
Governor grieved over loss of lives in Mazar-e-Sharif quake
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the loss of lives and property caused by the earthquake in Mazar-e-Sharif and adjoining areas of Afghanistan.
In his condolence message, Governor Kundi extended heartfelt sympathies to the families affected by the tragic disaster, praying for the departed souls and the speedy recovery of the injured. He said that he shares the pain of the bereaved families and stands in solidarity with the Afghan people during this difficult time. “I extend my deepest condolences to the Afghan government and people over the loss of precious lives in the earthquake,” the Governor said. He added that the people of Pakistan stand shoulder to shoulder with their Afghan brothers and sisters in this hour of grief.
Meanwhile, Governor Faisal Kundi strongly condemned the terrorist attack on the convoy of the District Police Officer (DPO) in North Waziristan on Monday.
Governor Kundi expressed deep concern over the incident in which terrorists opened fire on the DPO’s squad, injuring several police personnel. He prayed for the swift recovery of the injured officers and extended his heartfelt wishes to their families. “The attack on DPO Waqar Khan’s vehicle is deeply regrettable,” Governor Kundi said.
Governor Kundi reiterated that cowardly acts of terrorism cannot weaken the morale and determination of the police force. “Our police personnel are the frontline defenders against terrorism, and their courage and sacrifices will never be forgotten,” he affirmed.
