Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has intensified pressure on the federal government, issuing a stern ultimatum during his address to the KP Assembly. Gandapur’s impassioned speech highlighted the province’s grievances, particularly regarding financial allocations and unmet promises from the Centre.
while issuing ultimatum, Gandapur articulated KP’s frustration with the federal government’s handling of funds, alleging a significant cut of Rs300 billion in this fiscal year’s allocation. He emphasized that KP is obligated to remit a surplus of Rs96 billion to the federal government under IMF conditions, pledging to fulfill this obligation by June 30.
Expressing solidarity with KP, Gandapur criticized other provinces for non-compliance with agreed conditions, underscoring the province’s entitlement to Rs50 billion within two months. Failure to address these grievances, he warned, would evoke a strong response from KP.
Central to Gandapur’s address was the demand for a precise timeline from the federal government, addressing core issues such as outstanding dues, new taxes, funds for law enforcement, and tribal area development. He underscored the urgent need for Rs1,510 billion in electricity payments owed to KP.
Blaming the federal government for economic woes, Gandapur highlighted the inability of KP residents to pay Rs120 billion in electricity bills, attributing it to national economic downturns. He vehemently opposed any attempts to disconnect electricity in the province.
In a bold move, Gandapur threatened to take control of Wapda offices if relief measures weren’t provided promptly. He vowed legal action against those impeding KP’s rights and demanded dialogue within 15 days to address grievances.
Asserting provincial autonomy, Gandapur prohibited the imposition of new taxes on tribal areas without consent, invoking the 18th Amendment. Additionally, he announced reforms in health insurance and vowed to combat illegal recruitment.
Gandapur concluded with a promise to bolster employment opportunities through technical education initiatives and ensure equitable development across constituencies.
The Chief Minister’s resolute stance reflects KP’s determination to assert its rights and hold the federal government accountable for its commitments.