An official inquiry report, supported by video evidence, has been finalized regarding the chaotic incident at the Punjab Assembly during the visit of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi. The report has been forwarded to the Inspector General of Punjab Police, recommending legal proceedings against those responsible and requesting assistance from law enforcement for a deeper probe.
Key Findings of the Investigation
The investigative committee, constituted by Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, uncovered significant security lapses. The guest list provided by the opposition contained only names, making proper identification nearly impossible. It lacked crucial details like identity card numbers, photographs, and vehicle information, which severely complicated security procedures.
The report specifically identified an individual, Matiullah Barqi, who attempted to gain entry by falsely claiming to be MPA Ashfaq from constituency PK-89. Provincial Minister Meena Khan verified that Barqi was not the genuine lawmaker. When security personnel asked him to leave, Barqi allegedly engaged in a physical scuffle and used abusive language.
Furthermore, the committee noted that opposition assurances to station two PTI members at the main gate for identification purposes were never fulfilled. The report also highlighted the inclusion of a convicted individual, Haider Majeed, in the visiting party. Statements from security officials and video evidence form a core part of the investigative document.
Afridi's Accusations and Political Stance
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has strongly condemned the Punjab government's handling of his visit. He accused it of deliberately creating obstacles for PTI activities, labeling the treatment of party workers and leaders as "undemocratic" and "fascism on full display."
Afridi claimed that police harassed his convoy at multiple points, including Chakri and Bhera, prevented supporters from joining him, and restricted entry at the Punjab Assembly, leading to scuffles between his security detail and assembly staff. He warned that such actions could exacerbate inter-provincial tensions, while also thanking the people of Punjab for their warm welcome.
Commitment to Street Movement and Future Engagements
Separately, Chief Minister Afridi reaffirmed his commitment to follow the instructions of PTI founder Imran Khan "to the letter." In a post on social media platform X, he stated that his position on planning a street movement against the government remains unchanged, dismissing any contrary reports as personal interpretations.
"My leader has instructed me to manage the administrative affairs of my province while also preparing for a street movement. God willing, I will follow these instructions to the letter," Afridi stated. He also mentioned his upcoming visit to Karachi, noting that Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had invited him for a meeting in keeping with democratic norms. Afridi said he would meet the people of his province residing in Sindh and would approach CM Shah if any issues required resolution.
