ANP leader blames PTI govt for lawlessness in KP

TAKHTBHAI: The Awami National Party (ANP) central leader and Mayor of Mardan, Himayatullah Mayar, on Saturday held the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government responsible for the deteriorating law and order situation and the resurgence of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Speaking to reporters at the Takhtbhai Press Club, Himmatullah Mayar said that the PTI government had failed to protect the lives and property of the people and an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty had spread across the province.

“The ANP opposes military interference in politics, as the continuity of democracy and public representation is essential for the country’s development and stability,” he said, adding that the ANP stood shoulder to shoulder with the Pakistan Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism.

“The sacrifices made by our forces for the security, peace, and survival of the country are commendable and a source of pride for the nation,” he said.

Mayar recalled that when the ANP formed the provincial government, terrorism was at its peak and the government’s writ had almost collapsed. Through immense sacrifices by ANP leaders, workers, and the general public, peace and stability were restored in the province, he claimed

He accused the PTI government of adopting a lenient policy toward terrorists during its tenure, allowing them to reorganise. “This soft approach emboldened the terrorists, leading to a surge in terror incidents and a renewed breakdown of law and order,” he said. “Today, the people, police, and security forces are paying the price through their sacrifices and martyrdoms.”

He added that weak government policies gave terrorists the confidence to expand their activities, spreading fear and insecurity once again across the province.

Mayar also highlighted that KP was rich in natural resources such as gas, oil, and minerals, yet the province was unable to benefit fully due to federal control over these assets.

He criticised the PTI government for neglecting the province’s development and public welfare, claiming that its focus remained solely on protecting Imran Khan’s personal and political interests. “Public issues, development projects, and basic facilities were ignored, slowing down the province’s progress,” he said, adding that instead of serving the people, the PTI government prioritised political opportunism.

Mayar also criticised KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi for using inappropriate language during a public gathering in Charsadda. “If a chief minister uses such indecent language, what can we expect from others?”

Meanwhile, Mayar visited the Takhtbhai Press Club (registered) and offered condolences to press club president Muslim Khan Sabir on the passing of his mother and prayed for the departed soul’s eternal peace.

Mian Muhammad Tahir advocate, Shahid Sharif, Alamzeb Khan, Fazal Hameed Khan, Naveed Zaman and Syed Fawad advocate accompanied the mayor.