Leadership is not about fiery speeches or dramatic protests; it is about responsibility, action, and results. While the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government continues its political agitation, the province it governs—Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)—languishes in administrative neglect.
The situation raises a crucial question: Shouldn’t governance be about delivering for the people rather than engaging in relentless political theatrics?
Despite being in power in KP for over a decade, PTI’s provincial government has little to show in terms of substantial progress. Instead of setting an example of effective governance, KP has become a province where grand promises have routinely outpaced real accomplishments. In stark contrast, Punjab—despite facing its own challenges—has at least made efforts to introduce policies aimed at improving public welfare.
Ali Amin Gandapur, the current Chief Minister of KP, embodies the very problem that plagues PTI’s governance model. While he is quick to issue combative statements and rally against political opponents, he seems conspicuously absent when it comes to actual governance. His energy for protests and public speeches does not translate into meaningful efforts to improve the province’s infrastructure, education system, or healthcare services.
The reality of KP’s governance is grim: healthcare facilities in KP remain underfunded and overburdened. Hospitals lack basic medical supplies, and doctors frequently protest against poor working conditions. Roads, public transport, and water supply systems remain outdated, with little investment in sustainable development projects. The resurgence of militancy in certain areas highlights the government’s failure to ensure public safety. Schools remain under-equipped, and teacher shortages persist, leaving the province’s youth with substandard education opportunities.
If PTI had truly prioritized governance, KP would have been a shining example of their vision for Pakistan. Instead, it remains a province grappling with underdevelopment while its leaders are more focused on political showmanship than real reform.
The fundamental role of any government is to serve its people, not to manipulate them with emotionally charged rhetoric. Yet, the PTI government’s approach in KP suggests that political survival takes precedence over public welfare.
Across the world, governments strive to bring about economic and social development, recognizing that a well-governed nation attracts investment, fosters innovation, and enhances the quality of life for its citizens. Pakistan, however, remains trapped in a cycle where leaders prioritize optics over outcomes. This must change.
The KP government should be investing in infrastructure and public services, prioritizing road networks, public transportation, and access to clean drinking water. Hospitals and schools should receive adequate funding and resources.
Law enforcement agencies should be strengthened to combat rising security threats. Policies that protect businesses and encourage economic activity should be implemented. Job creation should be facilitated through small business incentives and industrial development.
Investment should be encouraged by ensuring political stability and policy consistency. Access to quality education and vocational training programs should be expanded. Teacher shortages should be addressed, and fair salaries for educators should be ensured.
The people of KP—and Pakistan as a whole—deserve a government that is committed to their well-being. Political theatrics may generate temporary popularity, but real leadership is measured by tangible results. If PTI wishes to retain its influence in KP, it must shift its focus from slogans to substance, from division to development, and from rhetoric to results.
Otherwise, history will remember its tenure not as an era of progress, but as a wasted opportunity marred by empty words and unfulfilled promises.
