Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Sohail Afridi has said he is fully prepared for any action against his government, including the possible imposition of governor’s rule, and vowed not to compromise on the political cause of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan.
“I am completely ready,” Afridi responded when asked whether he was mentally prepared for possible action against him.
Referring to calls to deal with the matter “once and for all”, he expressed confidence that the public would respond to such a move.
“God willing, the people will deal with their ‘once and for all’ this time, and they will do it this time,” he remarked.
Afridi also dismissed concerns over the possible imposition of governor’s rule, maintaining that he was unconcerned about when such a measure might be introduced.
“Governor’s rule is imposed from time to time. Let them impose it today. Let them impose it right now. I have no concern about these things,” he added.
The chief minister also maintained that he will not sacrifice the interests of the people or Imran Khan’s political vision merely to retain his position.
“I cannot sacrifice my people or Imran Khan’s vision for the sake of one seat,” Afridi stated. “I did not come here for this position, nor was it my objective.”
He described the movement’s objective as what Khan had termed “real freedom”, adding that he will not retreat from that cause even if it required him to risk his life.
“Even if I have to stake my life, even if I have to sacrifice my life, I will not step back from it,” he vowed.
Afridi also commented on reports that the provincial Inspector General (IG) of police and chief secretary had met federal authorities.
He noted that both officials were representatives of the federation and therefore had closer ties with the federal government than his administration.
“They are representatives of the federation. They are closer to them than they are to us,” he said.
