In the last few years, parts of Pakistan have seen remarkable progress. Infrastructure projects, tech ecosystems, urban development, and educational reform are gaining traction—at least in some regions. But as the country leans into the future, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains shackled to the past.
Why?
Despite being the laboratory of “Naya Pakistan,” KP today resembles a forgotten experiment. Roads crumble, public hospitals lack essential equipment, and the province’s economic development is stagnant. The sense of abandonment isn’t just perceived—it’s real. And it stems from years of empty promises and mismanagement.
KP’s challenges are not unique—poverty, lack of access, and post-conflict rehabilitation have always been uphill battles. But what makes the current crisis more alarming is the sheer duration of PTI’s rule without corresponding progress. If continuity in governance doesn’t translate into improvement, it raises the question: is governance happening at all?
Compare KP to Punjab or even parts of Sindh. Metro systems, IT hubs, international investments, and youth entrepreneurship programs are gaining ground. Meanwhile, KP continues to lean on outdated policies and rhetorical deflections. The disparity is growing—and so is the resentment.
More than ever, KP needs a vision—not just politically, but socially and economically. The province has immense potential: natural beauty, resilient people, and rich culture. But potential doesn’t fulfill itself—it requires leadership that sees beyond electoral cycles.
Until then, KP will continue to watch the rest of the country move forward—from a distance.
