Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah has issued a strong warning to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Sohail Afridi, saying he could be removed if he attempts to obstruct government action.
“Action has to be taken at all costs,” Rana Sanaullah said, warning that any obstacle to the operation would be dealt with.
While speaking on a television programme at ARY News, he said, “If Sohail Afridi becomes an obstacle, that obstacle will be removed”.
His remarks come amid heightened political tensions between the federal government and the PTI-led Khyber Pakhtunkhwa administration.
Mr Sanaullah also made a series of serious allegations against Sohail Afridi, claiming that the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which he referred to as “Fitna al-Khawarij”, was supporting him.
He alleged that Sohail Afridi and his supporters had sympathy towards the militant group.
The claims were not accompanied by evidence in the remarks, and Sohail Afridi has not, in the statement cited, been given an opportunity to respond to the allegations.
Sanaullah sought to reinforce his argument by referring to the security situation in Lakki Marwat, saying that people in the area were reluctant to gather in large numbers because of fears of suicide attacks.
The comments represent an escalation in the rhetoric between the federal government and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leadership.
Sanaullah said the government would not allow political resistance to prevent action and suggested that those attempting to block it could themselves face consequences.
The remarks are likely to intensify tensions between the federal authorities and the PTI-led provincial government, particularly as security and political issues remain closely intertwined in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Sohail Afridi has previously positioned himself as a strong opponent of the federal government’s policies, while the government has repeatedly criticised PTI leadership over its political activities and approach to security issues.
Sanaullah’s latest warning signals that the government intends to take a tougher line if the provincial leadership attempts to obstruct its actions.
