Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar stated that Sohail Afridi is being held in protective custody rather than arrested, and noted that the provincial assembly’s status has been suspended.
During an appearance on Dunya News’s ‘TONIGHT WITH SAMAR ABBAS’, Tarar presented evidence allegedly connecting certain individuals to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). He contended that Afridi had visited multiple locations and engaged in talks with militant groups to provide support to their members, asserting that these activities endangered public safety for political gain.
The federal minister also voiced concerns about the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s approach to counterterrorism, contending that provincial authorities had not demonstrated adequate commitment to the matter.
Tarar additionally claimed that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members had organized plans to set fire to and damage the Governor House, though he noted that public participation in the alleged scheme did not materialize.
He stated that Shafi Jan had also absconded and that no leadership remained for the intended long march. Characterizing Afridi as politically ineffective, Tarar condemned his conduct throughout the province.
Concerning provincial governance, Tarar indicated that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly’s status had been suspended and dismissed the likelihood of an internal political transition. He explained that a fresh administrative framework would oversee provincial operations, stating that Afridi’s reinstatement was not being contemplated.
The minister also announced that a National Assembly session would convene on Tuesday. He reiterated his concerns regarding the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, asserting that it has demonstrated insufficient commitment and questionable resolve in combating terrorism.
Tarar concluded by noting that the government would pursue efforts to apprehend individuals evading justice in relation to the May 9 cases.