CM Afridi pledges unwavering support to police, announces emergency security upgrades

PESHAWAR
A joint Darbar of police force and civil officers was held at the Chief Minister House, Peshawar, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Muhammad Sohail Afridi.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary, Inspector General of Police, Additional Chief Secretaries, administrative secretaries of provincial departments, divisional and district administration officers, police officers, and officials.
The Darbar commenced with prayers in remembrance of the martyrs of the police and civil administration.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that KP has been facing the consequences of war, terrorism, and external interference for the past four decades, which have deeply affected the public, police, civil servants, and the overall governance system. He said that over the last 21 years, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police, despite limited resources, has rendered unmatched sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, which is a source of pride for the entire nation.
Referring to recent incidents, the Chief Minister said that the martyrdom of police officers, officials, assistant commissioners, and civilians in Dera Ismail Khan, Bajaur, and other areas are unforgettable sacrifices. He added that the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps, CTD, and other security agencies have also rendered innumerable sacrifices for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the country. He categorically stated that the provincial government is making all out efforts to restore and sustain peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and stands shoulder to shoulder with the police and civil administration.
“Peace will be restored in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at all costs and will be ensured permanently. Decisions taken behind closed doors are no longer acceptable,” he said. He lamented that unfortunately some elements overstep their constitutional limits, while some institutions fail to fulfill their responsibilities, which affects the overall system. However, he gave a firm assurance that there will be no political interference in the working of any officer, but delivering results will be mandatory.
The Chief Minister said that maintaining law and order, providing relief to the public, and ensuring decision-making in the public interest are the top priorities of the provincial government. He directed that any attempt to exert political pressure on officers must be outrightly rejected, and public service must be given top priority.
He announced that emergency measures are being taken to equip the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police with modern weapons, technology, and resources.
The police are being provided with bulletproof vehicles, advanced weaponry, and anti-drone systems to effectively deal with modern security challenges. Emphasizing the importance of morale and faith among police personnel, he said that if they stand firmly for the people and the country with complete faith in Allah, success will surely follow.
The Chief Minister further announced that in accordance with the vision of Imran Khan, a zero-tolerance policy against corruption is being strictly enforced in the province. Any minister, MPA, police officer, or civil servant, found involved in corruption will face indiscriminate action.
He said that his office remains open 24/7 for the public and officers, and if evidence is presented, the government will take immediate action.
He reiterated that public service is the fundamental objective of his government. An open-door policy has been adopted for the public, and every government officer is duty-bound to listen to public grievances and ensure their prompt resolution. The Chief Minister stated that performance indicators for good governance have been finalized, and henceforth all promotions, postings, and assignments will be strictly based on performance. The government will fully support officers who perform well and will ensure strict accountability for any wrongdoing. In conclusion, the Chief Minister paid rich tribute to the martyrs and said that the government will not abandon the families of police personnel and civil servants who sacrifice their lives for the nation and the people.