PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has accused the authorities of denying his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) the democratic right to hold peaceful protests.
In his speech in provincial assembly today, the CM alleged that the government used force to stifle dissent. Gandapur criticised the refusal to grant permission for rallies and meetings, noting that his party was relegated to areas such as cattle markets for gatherings. “Peaceful protest is our democratic right,” he said.
Gandapur recounted the events of the recent protests, and spoke about what he called the “heavy-handed tactics” used by law enforcement, including shelling and road closures. “Even before we arrived, people were being shelled. Motorways were blocked, and trenches were dug to hinder our movement,” he said. Gandapur said that despite the obstacles, his convoy of 250 vehicles pushed back police forces and reached D-Chowk in Islamabad.
Describing the security situation, Gandapur accused Islamabad police chief of escalating tensions, leading to attacks on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House, where he alleged that Rangers and police fired shots. “Air firing at KP House made it seem as if terrorists were present,” he said.
The CM demanded the immediate removal of Islamabad Inspector General, warning of further actions if his demand was not met.
Gandapur emphasised that his protest was not aimed at creating violence, adding that loss of life was neither the goal nor the instruction from his leadership. “We have no fight with the institutions. Those with us and those against us are our brothers,” he said.
In his address, Gandapur also expressed solidarity with arrested party workers, vowing to secure their release and seek justice for any injustices they faced. “I can forgive any cruelty done to me, but I will not forgive what has been done to my workers,” he said.
