ISLAMABAD: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Wednesday warned of nationwide protests if the federal government does not address grievances concerning his province, including federal policies and the treatment of former prime minister Imran Khan.
Speaking at a press conference, the chief minister voiced concern over Khan’s deteriorating health and alleged economic disadvantages faced by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-led Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government at the hands of the federal authorities.
Afridi added that he had directed his party’s MPAs and provincial ministers to lead demonstrations in major cities across the province on Friday, describing the move as a coordinated response to what he called “systemic marginalisation.”
“We have been left with no option but to protest for our rights. My MPAs will lead demonstrations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and PTI workers will do the same in every corner of the country unless justice is delivered,” he added.
He said that the party had already issued a nationwide call for protests this Friday, which would be further intensified if their demands were not addressed, adding that the party’s stance would escalate by next week.
“All differences within the party have been resolved, and the entire party is now on the same page. We will take to the streets against the Injustices being done to us,” Afridi stated, adding that PTI would now act as a united front.
He characterised the planned protests as a form of public referendum on federal policies, emphasising the symbolic importance of participation by both provincial lawmakers and the wider population.
The chief minister voiced serious concern over the handling of Khan’s detention, questioning authorities’ reluctance to provide timely medical attention.
“God forbid, if something were to happen to Imran Khan in jail, who would be responsible,” he asked.
He also criticised what he described as the broader consequences of recent political decisions, asserting that a “regime change resulting from the cipher” had heightened societal tensions and fuelled divisions across the country.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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