Federal government targeting Pashtuns, says Barrister Saif

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government spokesperson Barrister Mohammad Ali Saif has accused the federal government of promoting division and targeting Pashtuns under the guise of anti-PTI sentiment.
In a statement, Barrister Saif criticized what he described as a “fake government” for its alleged campaign against PTI founder Imran Khan, stating that this agenda has resulted in systemic oppression against Pashtuns.
Pashtun individuals in the twin cities, Rawalpindi and Islamabad, were reportedly being harassed and detained, with many being wrongly accused of supporting PTI protests.
He claimed that “poor Pashtuns” are being rounded up and labeled as PTI activists.
Barrister Saif expressed disappointment at the silence of so-called nationalist parties on what he termed the “ridicule and oppression” of Pashtuns.
He questioned their lack of action in defending the rights and dignity of the Pashtun people.
Mr Saif highlighted the growing disrespect toward Afghan nationals, warning that this behavior could exacerbate tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
He emphasized the shared Muslim brotherhood between Afghans and Pakistanis and the need to protect and respect Afghan nationals, particularly in KP.
“Bad relations with Afghanistan directly impact Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” he said, urging the federal government to address the situation with care and diplomacy.
Barrister Saif demanded an immediate end to the alleged racial profiling and oppression of Pashtuns and urged the federal government to adopt measures that foster unity rather than division.
He also called for a respectful approach toward Afghan nationals, underscoring the importance of maintaining strong ties with neighboring Afghanistan for regional stability.
The provincial government’s commitment to protecting the dignity and rights of Pashtuns and advocating for fair treatment at all levels, he added.