Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has stated that the potential imposition of governor's rule in the province is directly tied to the performance and cooperation of the provincial government with federal and state institutions.
Condition for Avoiding Governor's Rule
Speaking to the media, Governor Kundi made it clear that effective cooperation from the provincial administration would eliminate any justification for such a drastic constitutional step. He stressed that the provincial government must work in close coordination with state institutions to maintain law and order and engage constructively with the federal government on pending issues, including the crucial matter of royalty payments owed to the province.
"If the provincial government supports federal and state institutions in a proper manner, the federal government would have no justification to impose governor's rule," Kundi said. He questioned, "If discussions are held on these matters, why would governor’s rule be imposed?" He emphasized that peace and stability are fundamental for the prosperity and development of the region.
No Talks with Anti-State Elements
The governor took a firm and unequivocal stance against negotiations with groups that have taken up arms against the state. He categorically rejected the possibility of dialogue with such elements, stating, "We will not hold dialogue even for a minute with those who stand against the state, who do not accept Pakistan’s Constitution and laws, and who are responsible for the martyrdom of our children and security personnel."
He pointedly referred to attacks on security installations, cadet colleges, FC headquarters, police training schools, military convoys, and police personnel, holding these elements responsible.
Stance on Afghan Refugees and Accountability
Governor Kundi issued a strong warning regarding the unregulated stay of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. He argued that if a decision is made not to repatriate them, and conditions deteriorate with incidents like suicide blasts, yet talks are held and offices provided to them, the situation could worsen significantly.
"Have you ever heard of any country where a Pakistani citizen can live without a visa?" he questioned. Kundi insisted that millions of Afghans who have lived in Pakistan for decades should return and re-enter legally, affirming that Pakistan would adhere to international treaties which mandate residence only with a valid visa.
Commenting on the recent 14-year sentence given to former ISI chief Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed, Governor Kundi termed it 'a good step'. He stated that accountability must apply to all, whether they are politicians, judges, or members of the armed forces. "Until there is a proper system of accountability and punishment, things cannot improve," he added.
On Potential Dialogue with PTI
Responding to questions about negotiations with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Kundi noted that it was "a good thing that PTI has now remembered that dialogue should also take place." He recalled that PTI had previously refused offers for talks or agreements on a Charter of Democracy or Economy.
"They used to say they did not want to shake hands with us and considered sitting together an insult," he stated. Kundi revealed that there has been no formal contact between the Pakistan Peoples Party and PTI so far, and any future engagement would be decided by the party leadership.
However, he expressed reservations about PTI's approach, suggesting they have "laid the wrong foundation." He concluded by questioning how meaningful dialogue could occur if talks are based on a formula that excludes other major political players.
