Azma Bokhari slams PTI’s absence from KP APC

LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has criticised the PTI government for refusing to participate in the All-Party Conference for Peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kurram, calling the decision “shameful.”

She condemned the PTI for exploiting the Pashtun card following the failure of their “third rebellion.”

Bokhari also remarked that Ali Amin Gandapur has time to meet a prisoner but not to work for the betterment of the Pashtuns’ future.

The minister said that the PTI, which has governed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for 12 years, seems unwilling to establish peace in the province. She accused the party of resorting to ethnic exploitation, using the Pashtun card when all other strategies have failed.

Bokhari alleged that Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi are manipulating the youth of Pashtun communities for ulterior motives.

Expressing concern over the deteriorating law and order in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Bokhari highlighted the daily occurrence of terrorist incidents in Kurram, Khyber, Bannu, and Dera Ismail Khan. She stressed that Gandapur should prioritise uniting all stakeholders to restore peace to the region.

The minister also lauded the sacrifices of Pakistan’s military, police, and other security forces, emphasising their critical role in defending the nation. She criticised the PTI for running what she termed a “vile campaign” against these forces.

The minister concluded by calling on Gandapur to resign if he is not committed to the welfare and future of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, saying that his continued presence in office is detrimental to the Pashtuns.