Federal Minister Releases White Paper on PTI’s Governance in KP
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Speaking at a press conference in Model Town, he released a white paper highlighting corruption and mismanagement in the province. He claimed that the PTI government has ignored public issues and promoted corruption during its 11-year tenure.
Financial Irregularities and Corruption
The minister detailed financial scandals under the PTI government. He revealed that irregularities worth Rs 152 billion have occurred in KP. Billions of rupees were given to fake companies under the guise of advertisements. Funds meant for the health sector were diverted to political activities.
Social media propaganda was another focal point. Billions of rupees were spent through fictitious companies for online campaigns. The provincial government’s deficit has now reached Rs 725 billion. Debt in the province amounts to Rs 75 billion, and if unchecked, the deficit could rise to Rs 2,555 billion by 2030.
Health and Education Crisis
Tarar accused the KP government of neglecting vital sectors like health and education. Teachers are unpaid and have resorted to protests. The government has removed universities from the Higher Education Commission and placed them under the Chief Minister’s control. He alleged that illegal appointments were made in the medical complex, adding to the crisis.
Law and Order Concerns
The federal minister criticized the lack of police reforms in KP. He argued that maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the provincial government, not the army. Without police reforms, lawlessness has increased in the province.
He pointed out the misuse of resources, mentioning that 1122 rescue vehicles were deployed for non-emergency activities. The recent unrest in Kurram District was highlighted as an example of neglect by the provincial government.
Inflation and Price Control
Food prices in KP remain high despite a nationwide decline. The minister questioned why the KP government failed to form price control committees. He praised the Punjab government, under Maryam Nawaz, for reducing food prices through effective policies.
Timber Mafia and Other Scandals
Tarar highlighted the role of the timber mafia in KP. He claimed the government has no answers for the timber mafia scandal, fake driving license scam, and other corruption cases. The minister said these issues have pushed the province to the brink of disaster.
Political Criticism and Suggestions for Stability
Tarar accused PTI leaders, including Ali Amin Gandapur, of weakening the state. He urged PTI to focus on resolving issues instead of playing political games. He emphasized the federal government’s efforts to stabilize the economy and improve Pakistan’s international standing.
A committee has been formed to negotiate with PTI. Tarar clarified that the aim of these talks is political stability, not an NRO. The federal government remains committed to providing support for peace, health, and governance in KP.
