KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi Denied Meeting with PTI Chairman Despite Islamabad High Court Orders

Independent Report
Peshawar, October 23, 2025

Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Muhammad Sohail Afridi, visited Adiala Jail on Thursday in an effort to meet with PTI Chairman and former Prime Minister Imran Khan, following explicit instructions from the Islamabad High Court allowing the meeting. However, despite the court’s clear orders, Chief Minister Afridi was reportedly denied access to his party leader.

Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail, Afridi expressed serious concern over the refusal to comply with the court’s directives, stating that such disregard raises critical questions about the rule of law and the justice system in Pakistan.

He emphasized that his visit was entirely constitutional and aimed at obtaining guidance from PTI leadership on crucial governance and policy matters. “For the past two years, I have been unable to meet with my leader. This meeting was necessary to ensure that the province’s development aligns with Imran Khan’s vision and policies,” Afridi said.

The Chief Minister noted that all legal and administrative procedures were meticulously followed prior to the visit, including coordination with the Punjab Home Department, federal authorities, and the Chief Justice, and subsequently obtaining approval from the Islamabad High Court.

Afridi reiterated his loyalty to PTI, stating: “I am not only the Chief Minister but also a dedicated worker of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf. I will implement every directive of Imran Khan, word for word.” He underscored that the KP mandate belongs to Imran Khan, and the provincial cabinet will not be formed without his guidance.

On regional matters, Afridi highlighted the importance of brotherly relations with neighboring countries, particularly Afghanistan, stressing that ties should be based on mutual respect and economic cooperation. He reaffirmed KP’s historical and cultural linkages with Afghanistan and emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to peace, trade, and prosperity in the region.

Commenting on the federal government’s security and development strategies, Afridi stated that terrorism cannot be eradicated solely through military operations. He said, “Despite several military operations, terrorism persists. Sustainable peace can only be achieved through the policies envisioned by Imran Khan.”

Afridi also addressed provincial financial rights, highlighting that KP has yet to receive funds owed under the NFC award, particularly for the merged districts (former FATA), amounting to nearly PKR 300 billion. Regarding bulletproof vehicles for the police, he clarified that the federal-provided vehicles were outdated and unusable, while the provincial government has allocated substantial funds to upgrade police infrastructure and provide modern vehicles.

Concluding his remarks, Chief Minister Afridi stressed that he will always present the truth before the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and seek justice through public accountability, asserting that “true justice comes from the decision of the people.”