PRIME Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif could not have been more unequivocal in expressing his grave concerns over the rapidly deteriorating political and security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Addressing an emergency cabinet meeting convened to discuss the province’s prolonged governance crisis under Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which has ruled KP for more than 13 years, the Prime Minister emphatically declared: “It is Now or Never!”
One can hardly disagree with the Prime Minister’s forthright assessment. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s political and security landscape has deteriorated alarmingly over the years, raising serious questions about the provincial government’s performance, priorities, and commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of its citizens.
Under PTI’s prolonged tenure, the province has continued to grapple with serious governance challenges, a deteriorating law-and-order situation and a resurgence of terrorism. The people of KP, who deserve peace, stability, economic opportunities and meaningful development, have instead endured mounting insecurity and uncertainty.
Even more distressing is the devastating toll of terrorism on innocent civilians, the courageous personnel of the Pakistan Army and members of law enforcement agencies. These brave men and women continue to make extraordinary sacrifices, often paying the ultimate price, in their unwavering determination to protect Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and citizens from ruthless terrorist elements.
It is deeply regrettable that, despite the growing threat, the provincial government’s response has repeatedly come under criticism for its perceived inadequacy. The persistent resurgence of terrorism constitutes an existential challenge to peace, public safety and economic progress in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Such a grave threat demands resolute leadership, an unambiguous political commitment and coordinated action by all state institutions.
Equally troubling is the apparent reluctance of the provincial administration to respond unequivocally to the Federal Government’s calls for a united front against terrorism. At a time when terrorist attacks continue to threaten the lives of innocent citizens and security personnel, political differences must not be allowed to undermine the national resolve to defeat this menace.
The question, therefore, is unavoidable: What message does the provincial government convey when it fails to demonstrate the unequivocal condemnation of terrorism and the unified national resolve that this critical moment demands? The answer is for the readers to judge.
Having carefully assessed the gravity of the prevailing situation, the scribe unequivocally endorses the Federal Government’s decision to impose a state of emergency and Governor’s Rule in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP), with immediate effect, under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution of Pakistan.
Undoubtedly, this constitutionally permissible and administratively pragmatic measure could prove instrumental in restoring peace, ensuring effective governance and protecting the lives and well-being of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This extraordinary constitutional intervention would also facilitate a more effective response to the province’s mounting security challenges while ensuring that the supreme interests of its people remain fully protected.
Pakistan, our beloved homeland, came into existence through the unparalleled sacrifices, unwavering determination and extraordinary struggle of our forefathers. Its sovereignty, security and honour must remain our foremost priorities. No political party, individual or government should be permitted to place partisan interests above the collective welfare and security of the nation. Pakistan must always come first—everything else must follow! Long live Pakistan!
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Islamabad.