Rally Context
The PTI rally in Peshawar on Sunday began with the national anthem and slogans, following Chief Minister Suhail Afridi’s opening in Pashto verse. The atmosphere reflected strong party support and provided the backdrop for Afridi’s remarks, which included responses to recent statements from the military spokesperson as well as broader commentary on governance and policy.
Response to DG ISPR
Afridi criticized the language used by DG ISPR Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry in his press briefing, where terms like “security threat,” “narcissist,” and “prisoner of self” were heard. While the spokesperson did not name anyone, observers widely linked the remarks to jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Afridi said:
“I am a proud Pashtun tribal. My training is not to abuse. But there must be a difference between an institution’s DG and a fake senator or minister. You are not a party spokesperson.”
Security Policy Critique
Shifting focus, Afridi questioned Pakistan’s security approach over the past two decades. He noted that operations and drone strikes had continued for 21 years, costing Pashtun lives and sacrifices.
“If after 21 years your policy has not succeeded, the fault lies with you. Change the policy. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is not a laboratory for experiments.”
He insisted that future security policy must be shaped by the province’s people themselves.
Governance and Development
Afridi rejected claims of poor governance in KP, pointing out that voters had elected Imran Khan three times. He contrasted this with what he described as elite corruption, citing IMF reports alleging misuse of Rs5,300 billion in taxes.
He announced a Rs100 billion development package for Peshawar, positioning it as proof of his government’s commitment to the province.
Defense of Imran Khan
Throughout his speech, Afridi repeatedly invoked Imran Khan, leading chants in his favor. He described himself as Iqbal’s “Shaheen,” dismissing critics as “political crows” who could not hinder his flight.
“Imran Khan is present in KP, Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, and abroad. Wherever you polish boots, those same people salute Imran Khan.”
Afridi argued that the public’s turnout was evidence of continued support for Khan.
Commitment to Institutions
The Chief Minister emphasized that his upbringing taught him love for the country and its institutions. He highlighted sacrifices of over 80,000 lives for Pakistan’s stability, asserting that criticism was paired with solutions.
Closing Note
Afridi concluded by pledging to continue the struggle for independent judiciary, free media, and constitutional restoration, framing PTI’s movement as both political and institutional.