Shehbaz Sharif Arrives in Peshawar to Review KP Security Situation

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Peshawar on Thursday to chair a provincial apex committee meeting on security challenges and law and order in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi are accompanying the prime minister, according to official sources.

The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Governor House. Participants will review the province’s security situation and discuss measures to strengthen peace and stability.

During the visit, Shehbaz Sharif is also expected to meet KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi. Their discussion will include key development projects planned for the province.

KP Under Emergency and Governor’s Rule

The prime minister’s visit comes amid major political and administrative changes in KP. The federal government imposed emergency and governor’s rule on October 11.

Mashreq Launches NEO BIZ in Pakistan to Support SMEs with Digital Banking

President Asif Ali Zardari approved the measures under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution, respectively, following a recommendation from the federal cabinet. The Centre cited worsening security conditions and what it described as insufficient cooperation from the PTI-led provincial government in counterterrorism efforts.

Following the decision, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, his cabinet and advisers ceased to hold office. Executive authority shifted to Governor Faisal Karim Kundi.

Advisory Council and Development Secretariat Established

The federal government also announced an 11-member advisory council to assist the governor in administering the province.

It established a separate Area Development Secretariat for 12 districts affected by terrorism. These districts include Dera Ismail Khan, Tank, Lakki Marwat, Bannu, Bajaur, Mohmand and Khyber.

The list also includes Kurram, Orakzai, Upper South Waziristan, Lower South Waziristan and North Waziristan. The new secretariat is intended to address development needs in these areas.

Army Deployment for Civil Administration

The Centre has also authorised the deployment of the Pakistan Army under Article 245 of the Constitution to assist the civil administration.

The apex committee meeting is expected to focus on security challenges and steps to maintain peace across KP. Discussions will also take place against the backdrop of the province’s recent administrative changes and development priorities.