Pakistan Suspends Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government Amid Terrorism Claims

The Government of Pakistan declared a state of emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, suspending the provincial government led by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). President Asif Ali Zardari issued the proclamation citing a breakdown of constitutional machinery and a surge in terrorist attacks. The federal government implemented a lockdown involving road blocks, school closures, and partial internet shutdowns to protect the population.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif justified the intervention by accusing the PTI administration of failing to protect citizens and neglecting the Counter Terrorism Department despite receiving over Rs800 billion in funding. He announced the creation of an impartial technocratic advisory council to assist the Governor in stabilizing the economy and combating terrorism. Federal Information Minister Attah Tarrar further alleged the provincial government was "hand in glove with the terrorists."

The move follows a week of mass protests led by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi demanding the release of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan. While the federal government denies a political agenda, the suspension triggered violent clashes. Police used tear gas and live ammunition against protesters, resulting in five injuries and 50 detentions. In Bara, protesters allegedly set fire to a National Database and Registration Authority center. The current status of Chief Minister Afridi remains disputed, with the government claiming he is in protective custody while his party reports he was arrested.