Sindh Governor Criticises KP CM Over Karachi Visit Disruptions
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori has strongly criticised Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi for alleged incitement of vandalism and road blockades during his recent visit to Karachi. The governor stated that these actions resulted in “losses worth billions of rupees” to the nation’s economic hub.
Afridi had visited Karachi as part of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) anti-government “street movement.” The KP Chief Minister had alleged mistreatment by the Sindh government, claiming attempts were made to prevent his party from staging a peaceful protest at Mazar-e-Quaid. The Sindh government, however, denied these claims, citing security reasons and control of the grounds.
Governor Tessori’s Concerns Regarding Provincial Visit Disruptions
Addressing reporters in Karachi, Governor Tessori remarked that the PTI’s agitation had seemingly failed to gain traction beyond social media. He extended an invitation to CM Afridi to visit again, but urged him to bring constructive proposals for economic development rather than stirring public unrest.
“If you talk about establishing new industries, expanding inter-provincial trade, the future of people, giving health and educational opportunities, people will definitely welcome you,” Tessori stated. He contrasted this with “incendiary political narrative, incitement to vandalism, blockades, causing trouble to people—these things will not be welcomed.” SindhNews.com notes that Karachi’s vital role as Pakistan’s financial centre makes such disruptions particularly damaging.
Economic Repercussions of Blockades During KP CM’s Visit
The governor emphasised the significant “losses worth billions of rupees” incurred by halting economic activities in Karachi. He appealed to the Chief Minister to refrain from such disruptive tactics, highlighting Pakistan’s current position on the global stage and its diplomatic progress.
Tessori drew a parallel between the events and the May 9 incidents, where widespread protests and vandalism followed Imran Khan’s arrest. He described such actions at this juncture as potentially serving a “foreign conspiracy and a foreign agenda.”
The governor underscored the importance of providing educational opportunities, stating that ignorance fuels terrorism. He also defended the armed forces, asserting that while politicians might disappoint, the army remains a constant source of national pride and defence capability, a sentiment echoed by many across the nation, according to SindhNews.com.
He questioned the PTI’s narrative, pointing to figures like President Arif Alvi and Imran Khan, both associated with Karachi, and demanding an account of their contributions to the city and its diverse population. Tessori challenged the party to “name a single project” they had initiated for the benefit of the communities in Karachi.
The governor concluded by urging a choice between economic and educational advancement for the country versus following a path that promotes mere slogans and flag-waving. The disruption caused by the KP Chief Minister’s visit, according to Governor Tessori, ultimately cost the nation billions.