KP CM Afridi warns of protests against drone attacks

“PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi expressed on Friday his intention to protest against drone attacks in his province, saying that these attacks were resulting in “collateral damage”. The CM made these remarks while addressing a provincial cabinet meeting, a day after he hinted at introducing legislation to criminalise collateral damage in such incidents. He said the meeting was called against “persistent drone attacks” and the subsequent collateral damage, which had “become a curse in KP”. The CM condemned these attacks, saying that they were fostering sentiments of “revenge among the people”, as well as resulting in an increase in terrorism, which was harmful for KP and the entire country. On Thursday, Afridi also announced that a jirga would be summoned on Saturday against drone attacks, while the opposition was also told to ensure tribal elders’ presence for deciding the future course of action. Addressing the cabinet meeting, Afridi also termed the loadshedding of gas in KP a violation of Article 158 of the Constitution, which states: “The province in which a well-head of natural gas is situated shall have precedence over other parts of Pakistan in meeting the requirements from that well-head, subject to the commitments and obligations as on the commencing day.” According to Afridi, KP is producing 400 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd), and its consumption is only 150 mmcfd. The remaining 250 mmcfd was being supplied to other areas in Pakistan, he said, adding that even then, KP faced gas loadshedding. He also mentioned that gas production in KP was expected to rise to 600 mmcfd, with exploration activities under way in the Miran block. He decried the “discrimination” against KP, saying that it was not being given its due share under the National Finance Commission (NFC). The CM further alleged that Punjab had stopped wheat supply to KP and also complained about electricity loadshedding. He warned that if the issue of gas supply to KP was not resolved within 48 hours, the provincial government would launch a coordinated protest in consultation with all political parties. More to follow

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