Islamabad, April 4, 2025: Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) declared on Friday that the provincial government will not forcibly expel Afghan refugees, emphasizing a policy rooted in dignity, compassion, and national tradition.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Gandapur stated that camps have been established for Afghan nationals wishing to return voluntarily, and those who choose to go back will be sent off with respect.
“Deporting Afghan nationals without a comprehensive strategy is unjust and contrary to both Pakistan’s policy and traditions,” he said, adding, “Our stance is clear — no force will be used.”
The Chief Minister also announced that Rs. 30 billion has been allocated to bolster the police and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD). He unveiled a new Provincial Action Plan, developed by learning from past shortcomings, to align public support with institutional efforts.
“Positive results will soon be visible,” he noted, citing recent incidents where citizens stood with law enforcement against disruptive elements.
Gandapur raised serious concerns about outstanding financial commitments from the federal government.
“The center owes Rs. 2,020 billion to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” he claimed, criticizing a previous deal made under Pervez Khattak, which allegedly reduced the province’s rightful share of Rs. 1,680 billion to only Rs. 80 billion.
He warned that if the funds are not released, the provincial government will escalate the matter to the Council of Common Interests (CCI) and, if necessary, to the Supreme Court.
Stressing the interconnectedness of regional peace, Gandapur remarked that stability in Pakistan is not possible without peace in Afghanistan.
“Pakistan took part in the war in Afghanistan, and we are still bearing its consequences. If Afghan groups have taken up arms again, the solution lies not in force, but in building trust and winning hearts.”
He revealed that terms of reference (TORs) for negotiations with the Afghan government had been drafted, but no response had been received in over three months. Gandapur urged the federal government to prioritize national interest over politics and engage with the issue seriously.
Responding to a question, the Chief Minister said he has a constitutional right to meet weekly with PTI founder Imran Khan, supported by a court order, but has been denied access.
He reiterated that Imran Khan has not refused negotiations, but emphasized that while negotiations for the country’s sake are possible, personal deals will not be made.
