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[VIDEOS] Expectations from Ali Amin Gandapur as CM KPK

There should have been a portfolio for Human Development/ HRD but let's see what these people can do, on the other hand Rs. 5 billion issued for Health Card covering whole of KPK which is an excellent initiative
 
He started with some good moves like the revival of Health cards etc, lets see how he controls corruption in KPK which is a big ask to handle.
 
CM.KPK Gandapur ordered to withdraw security from all ex-chief ministers, that if anyone needs security he should do it from his own pocket.
 
Very good thing done. Should be implemented 100 percent now, not just the talk for media it should be.

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KP govt to withdraw perks and privileges of former CMs

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to withdraw the perks and privileges of the province’s former chief ministers.

“As a poor country, we can’t afford to provide perks and privileges to former CMs. All these facilities, including guards and government vehicles, are being taken back [from them] here,” newly-elected Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur told reporters after his cabinet’s first meeting at the Civil Secretariat here on Friday.

Besides cabinet members, the provincial chief secretary, additional chief secretaries, and administrative secretaries of the provincial departments also attended the meeting.

The CM said his government was working to improve the law-and-order situation.

“Our priority is to provide the maximum possible relief to the inflation-hit people,” he said.

Mr Gandapur said instead of talking about the past, the government would move on.

He said his party had political and ideological differences with those ruling the centre but still, the provincial government wanted a good working relationship with the federal government.

“The federal government has to clear our [KP’s] Rs1,510 billion dues, but those payments haven’t been made despite several reminders. I suggest that if the centre can’t do that, it should subsidise power and gas for KP and deduct that subsidy from the province’s arrears,” he said.

The CM said the cabinet, in order to provide relief to the deserving people amid high inflation, approved a Rs8.5 billion Ramazan relief package for them.

“Under the Ramazan Package, 850,000 households listed in the Ehsaas-Benazir Income Support Programme will be provided with Rs10,000 cash each,” the chief minister said, according to an official statement issued by the CM’s Secretariat.

It added that 115,000 households not listed in the programme for any reason would also get Rs10,000 each.

The newly-elected government has already ordered the reactivation of all langar khanas (soup kitchens) established by the last PTI government by Ramazan 1.

It also said dastarkhawans (food points) would be established in district and tehsil headquarters hospitals across the province at the time of sehar and iftar during Ramazan.

The CM said it was one of his government’s top priorities to promote employment opportunities in the province, while special attention would be given to the development of skills in youth, who would also get interest-free loans to start their own businesses.

He said in light of the prevailing economic situation and its adverse impacts on people’s lives, the provision of relief to the people as well as the improvement of the law and order situation would be the top priority of the provincial government.

“As the first step of relief, our cabinet has decided to fully restore the Sehat Card Plus scheme from the first day of Ramazan,” he said.

Mr Gandapur said the clearance of Rs1510 billion dues by the centre would help the province overcome financial problems.

“We are not asking the centre for charity. Instead, we are demanding our legitimate and constitutional rights,” the statement quoted the CM as saying.

He said he was aware of the current economic situation of the country, and therefore, he didn’t demand the clearance of all its dues in a single go.

“A viable mechanism about the issue can be devised with mutual understanding,” he said.

Mr Gandapur urged people to raise voice against corruption and bribery and help the government eradicate the menace. He also asked them to monitor the quality of work on development projects.

He said there won’t be power cuts for three hours during iftar and sehar hours in both urban and rural areas.

“If it does not happen, people need to tell us. Power outages due to technical faults can happen, but other kinds of loadshedding won’t be acceptable,” he said.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur has demanded constitution of a judicial commission to investigate the cipher case and alleged rigging in recently-held general elections, ARY News reported on Sunday.

Addressing a public rally in Peshawar, the chief minister alleged that a conspiracy was hatched to oust PTI-led federal government in 2022.

It is pertinent to mention here that PTI founder Imran Khan was ousted as the prime minister from office through a no-confidence motion in April 2022.

“One day all conspirators will be exposed,” CM Gandapur said, demanding Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa to form judicial commission on Cipher at the earliest.

Referring to alleged rigging in February 8 general elections, Ali Amin Gandapur said that the PTI won the polls as per the Form 45s while demanding a judicial inquiry into “result tempering”.

He also lamented the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) decision of not allocating reserved seats to Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), saying that distributing claimed seats for minorities and women among other political parties was illegal and unconstitutional.

Earlier in the day, PTI leaders Salman Akram Raja and Sardar Latif Khosa were arrested as party leaders and workers staged nationwide protests against alleged rigging in February 8 general election and stealing of mandate.

PTI leaders and workers took to streets across the country with rallies being held in various cities of Punjab, including Rawalpindi and Islamabad, along with protests in Karachi, Kandhkot, Tank and other cities.

According to a PTI spokesperson, the nation would never accept the “proven, most corrupt persons as the president and prime minister of the country against their will”.

arynews.tv

CM Gandapur calls for judicial commission on cipher, ‘election rigging’

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur has demanded constitution of a judicial commission to investigate the cipher case
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
He should act as the responsible Chief Minister of KPK, not an advocate for Imran Khan.
 
CM house was opened for party workers today where huge gathering celebrated the appointment of Gandapur as the coveted CM.

However a terrorist attack also happened in Peshawar yesterday where 2 people were killed. KP govt needs to get its act right
 
FearlessRoar said:
He should act as the responsible Chief Minister of KPK, not an advocate for Imran Khan.
Click to expand...
Your posts should be aimed at Bloody Mary and the mandate thieves brought in with form 47s.

What does that mean. IK is a political prisoner, why should he stay quiet and not fight to get peoples mandate recognised.
 
From 0.7 million to Rs. 1 million the limit of KPK health cards now set by Mr. Gandapur
 

As a CM it's his right to have the administration of his choice​

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CM Gandapur seeks removal of KP chief secretary​

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has written to the federal government seeking the removal of provincial chief secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry from office.

In a letter dated March 9, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, the KP CM’s secretariat wrote that Gandapur wished for Chaudhry’s services to be withdrawn.

Shahab Ali Shah, a BS-21 officer currently serving in Balochistan, was instead suggested to be appointed as the new chief secretary.

Source: Dawn News
 
Disqualification case against Gandapur is premeditated, says PTI’s Marwat

The disqualification case against Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister was premeditated as it was not filed before the general elections, PTI lawmaker Sher Afzal Marwat has claimed.

“Gandapur is not acceptable to them and when he was nominated [as the KP CM], even then former prime minister Imran Khan was pressurised,” he said in an interview with Shaukat Piracha on his show Rubaroo aired on Aaj News on Tuesday.

He was speaking about a petition filed in the Election Commission of Pakistan, seeking disqualification of the KP CM for acquiring a piece of land in Dera Ismail Khan.

The country’s top electoral authority has fixed the case for hearing and asked Gandapur to appear before the district election commissioner on March 26.

The petitioner is JUI-F leader Muhammad Kafeel who contested elections as a member provincial assembly on February 8.

Marwat claimed that he had background knowledge related to the case, citing it as linked to the developments shared by party MPA Asif Khan, the son of Dost Muhammad Khan.

“Asif Khan learned that some people were searching for him and maybe he would be abducted concerning the same land for which Gandapur’s disqualification is sought. They perhaps tried to turn him as an approver and force him to become a witness in the case against Gandapur,” Marwat said and claimed that he had conveyed such a message to the KP CM.

According to the PTI MNA, such a technique did not prove to be successful and the “people wanting to kidnap Asif Khan” approached their “favourite forum”, the ECP.

Without naming the people behind such methods, he claimed that they were after Gandapur because he was the former PM’s “sepoy” who led the party after leaders quit the party following the May 9 events.

When asked, he said: “Every case against us in the ECP is serious. Whether it is a case or not, it gets serious by default, but I think they have chosen the wrong forum as ECP cannot disqualify under these provisions.”

He was of the view that such an objection has not been raised in the past and filing such a petition so after elections shows “it is premeditated.”

The host also asked him about the JUI-F’s decision to form an alliance with the PPP for the Senate election.

Marwat stated that the party took the first statement of JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman seriously, but the latter showed that his “nuisance value” was increasing after he abstained from voting for Mehmood Khan Achakzai in the presidential election.

“It will not be late that he will be part of the PDM [redux] and seek a ministry in the government,” he added.

While speaking about the Punjab government’s decision to ban Imran Khan’s meeting, he said that the problem started when the authorities kept former first lady Bushra Bibi in Bani Gala instead of the Adiala and they claimed that three Afghan nationals were arrested.


www.aajenglish.tv

Disqualification case against Gandapur is premeditated, says PTI’s Marwat

MNA claims ex-PM Imran Khan’s shifting to Bani Gala is part of conspiracy
www.aajenglish.tv
 
KP threatens to take centre to court over dues issue

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur on Tuesday warned that his province would move the court of law to claim dues from the centre.

He also ordered the formation of a team of experts to “effectively” take up the matter with the federal government.

“In case this issue isn’t resolved by the centre, we will use all available options, including the legal action, to claim dues. Reputable law firms will be hired to plead our case in court,” Mr Gandapur told a meeting here.

The participants included adviser to the chief minister on finance Muzzammil Aslam, chief secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry, additional chief secretary Syed Imtiaz Hussain Shah, principal secretary to the chief minister Amjad Ali Khan, finance secretary Aamir Sultan Tareen, energy and power secretaryNisar Ahmad, and other relevant officials.

They were briefed about the money to be paid by the centre to the province and related matters, according to an official statement.

Officials said under the AGN Qazi Formula, the centre had to pay Rs1,510 billion to the province in lieu of net hydel profit, whereas the arrears on account of theprovince’s own generated electricity provided to the national grid totalled Rs6 billion.

They said the administrative merger of Fata with KP had been completed, but the region’s financial integration with the province was incomplete, causing financial problems for the provincial government.

The officials said the province was not getting its due share of federal transfers, so it faced a major financial challenge.

They also said after the merger of Fata, the population of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had increased, but its share in the National Finance Commission Award hadn’t been increased accordingly.

The officials added that the issue should be addressed to help the province claim its due share in national resources.

They said as per the current population after the Fata-KP merger, the province’s share in the NFC Award was 19.64pc but it was getting 14.62pc only.

The officials said the centre had provided the province with just Rs103 billion out of the committed Rs500 billion under the Accelerated Implementation Programme for the newly merged tribal districts.

On the occasion, the chief minister directed authorities to chalk out a strategy for taking up the province’s financial matters with the federal government.

He said all required documents, along with the plan of action on the matter, should be finalised within a month.

Mr Gandapur said all available legal and constitutional forums would be approached to claim due funds and other rights.

He later chaired a meeting of the provincial board of revenue and directed authorities to make necessary amendments to the relevant law to ensure protection of women’s inheritance rights.

The chief minister also ordered pragmatic steps for the completion of Phase I of the ongoing land records computerisation project by June 2024 and Phase II by Dec 2024.

He also said the deployment of necessary staff members at the district level should be ensured before the computerisation of land records.

Revenue minister Nazir Abbasi, senior member of the Board of Revenue Ikramullah Khan and other relevant officials attended the meeting.

Officials briefed other participants about the department’s administrative affairs, reforms, revenue collection, development projects, and related matters.

The chief minister said it was imperative to introduce reforms in the provincial board of revenue to improve service delivery to the people.

He directed authorities to ensure necessary amendments to the legal framework of the department.

SOURCE: DAWN
 

Was it a tense or jolly mode meeting? Don't know​

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PM Shehbaz, KP CM meeting a positive development: information minister​

Information Minister Ataullah Tarar has said that the meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur is a positive development for the country, adding that if these meetings continue then he could see the country moving towards a solution to its economic problem.

Speaking on Geo News show Capital Talk, Tarar said the Constitution provides the government with a federal set-up of governance which entails close coordination between the provinces and the Centre to work together.

“If the coordination between federal and province is weak then Pakistan will get weak,” he said.

He reiterated what PM Shehbaz said on the floor of the National Assembly regarding the Charter of Conciliation, that the responsibility to fix the country’s economy lay with everyone.

Source: Dawn News
 
KP CM Gandapur meets PM Shehbaz in first official engagement

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday, the first such engagement between the two since Election 2024.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad on Wednesday, CM Gandapur said that his meeting with the prime minister was a positive start. He was accompanied by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal and other PML-N leaders.

Gandapur, a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader, went on to add that PM Shehbaz ensured to address the issues of the KP and extended complete support to the KP government.

Gandapur urged PM Shehbaz to politically engage incarcerated former prime minister Imran Khan.

“I have asked the prime minister to politically engage with Imran Khan. Political engagement will lead to a political solution,” he added.

Minister Iqbal said that the politics aside, all parties needed to put the state before everything.

He vowed to take everyone on board regarding the multifaceted issues faced by the country, saying that the federal government will also look into the arrears issues of the KP.

It is pertinent to mention that the KP CM refused to attend the oath-taking ceremony of PM Shehbaz after his election as the prime minister.

He also did not meet the prime minister during his recent visit to the province.

On PM Shehbaz’s visit to KP, Gandapur said he was not present in Peshawar during the PM’s visit.

“It’s our tradition that we take special care of guests,” he added.


AAJ News
 

Imran told KP CM to remove IG from his post: Sher Afzal Marwat​

PTI leader Sher Afzal Marwat has disclosed that party founder and former prime minister Imran Khan instructed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur to remove Inspector General of Police Akhtar Hayat Khan from his post.

Source: Dawn News
 
KP plans ‘Billion Tree Plus’ to increase forest cover

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on Thursday decided to increase forest cover in the province by launching the ‘Billion Tree Plus’ project.

The decision was made in a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur and attended by forest minister Fazal Hakim, principal secretary to the CM Amjad Ali Khan, forest secretary Nazar Hussain Shah and relevant officials.

Officials briefed participants of the meeting about the forest department’s affairs, including performance, targets, administrative and related matters, according to an official statement issued by the CM’s House.

Mr Gandapur directed authorities to complete homework for the new afforestation project and said that an effective strategy should also be formulated to enhance revenue collection by the department and prevent the cutting of forests in the province.

He ordered a substantial increase in the fine for illegally cutting down forests and logging timber and said the fine should be more than the value of the timber harvested.

The chief minister also said CCTV cameras should be installed at all forest checkposts to keep a close watch on timber smuggling and other illegal activities.

He also directed authorities to come up with viable proposals and an action plan for promoting fisheries in the province.

Launched in 2015 by PTI chairman Imran Khan, Billion tree Tsunami project was meant to turn the tide on land degradation and loss in the mountainous, formerly forested KP province in the Hindu Kush mountain range.

The then provincial government of PTI had claimed that one billion trees were planted.

However, the project was later hit by scandals as National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had claimed that only 250 million trees were planted. Inquiries were also launched to probe irregularities in the project.

It was alleged that plants were not acquired as per market rate and were actually bought at a higher rate from nurseries, who were not aware of the requirements.

According to NAB documents, there are currently six inquiries being made regarding the Billion Tree Tsunami Project, while one inquiry has been completed regarding the alleged corruption in the same project in Dera Ismail Khan.

On the other hand, PTI termed it a flagship project of its government and claimed that the scheme was lauded across the globe by environmentalists and conservationists.

Also, the chief minister presided over a meeting about the Peshawar-Dera Ismail Khan Motorway.

Officials briefed him about the progress of the motorway project, its total cost, and the proposed alignment.

Mr Gandapur directed officials to consider the ‘build, operate, and transfer’ option for the construction of the Peshawar-Dera Ismail Khan Motorway and said that all necessary steps should be ensured for the purpose.

Officials told participants that the 365km long motorway would have two tunnels and 19 interchanges, benefiting a sizeable population.

They also said that the Peshawar-Dera Ismail Khan Motorway was discussed in the eighth meeting of the Joint Working Group of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project, and it was decided that the project would be reconsidered in its next meeting.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
Employment generation govt’s top priority, says Gandapur

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur on Friday said that it was one of the top priorities of his government to provide employment opportunities to the people in the province and promote self-employment among talented youth.

In a meeting with a delegation from the Asian Development Bank at the Pakhtunkhwa House in Islamabad, the chief minister declared the ADB an important development partner of the provincial government.

“We [government] want to continue with this partnership in a more integrated and effective manner,” he told visitors.

The delegation discussed with the chief minister matters related to ADB-KP cooperation, with a focus on development projects for public welfare being carried out in the province with the assistance of the bank, according to an official statement issued here.

Provincial minister Arshad Ayub was also present in the meeting.

The chief minister said work was in progress on a number of development projects in various sectors with the financial assistance of the ADB.

He, however, said that the provincial government wanted to further enhance and extend the cooperation and partnership with the ADB in other sectors, including water supply, solar energy, flood protection, solid waste management, urban transport, agriculture, livestock, food security, and social services.

“We expect special cooperation from our development partner for the development of newly merged districts and other backward areas of the province,” he said.

Mr Gandapur said that a programme was in the works to “renovate” all major cities in the province.

He said that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Cities Improvement Project, assisted by the ADB, was an important project of the provincial government.

“We need special cooperation for implementing Phase II of this project as well,” he said.

The chief minister said that the provincial government had a lot to do in different sectors, especially in tourism, health, education, and public health engineering.

He said that his government would like to work in partnership with the ADB to provide basic facilities in the social services sector.

The visitors told the chief minister that the coordination between his government and the ADB for development work in the province was excellent.

They said that the performance of the provincial government’s team regarding the implementation of development projects was remarkable.

The delegates said that the Asian Development Bank intended to promote cooperation and development partnerships with the provincial government in different sectors.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
Funds from federal govt not charity: Gandapur

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur has asserted that funds allocated by the federal government are not charity but rightfully owed to the province.

"It's not begging; it's our entitlement, and we will persist in claiming it," he stressed.

He further stated that the issue regarding payment of outstanding dues of the province has been taken up with the prime minister, adding that it was a matter of the rights of the people.

“Federation would have to provide it; we would continue to fight for the rights of the people, and no stone would be left unturned in this regard,” the chief minister said.

Gandapur arrived in Dera Ismail Khan for his inaugural visit following his appointment as the chief executive of the province. He was greeted with enthusiasm by party members and the local people.

Addressing the media during the visit, CM Ali Amin Khan Gandapur assured that as the chief minister of the entire province, it was his foremost duty to uphold law and order, as well as to prioritise the advancement and well-being of all citizens throughout the region.

"The very first responsibility of incumbent provincial government is to maintain law and order," he remarked and said that a viable plan has also been finalised in this regard.

He announced the restoration of the Sehat Insaf Card, which had been suspended for the past eighteen months.

Additionally, measures will be implemented to enhance service delivery in government hospitals across the province. Soon, citizens will have access to comprehensive facilities in government hospitals, obviating the need for private healthcare services.

He said that since the PTI-elected government at the centre was ousted through a “conspiracy”, the country's economic conditions have steadily worsened. Consequently, the soaring prices of essential commodities have impacted the livelihoods of ordinary citizens nationwide.

Keeping in view the prevailing economic situation and its adverse impacts on the life of the general public, the incumbent provincial government, despite the numerous challenges, has decided to give relief to the people, he said.



tribune.com.pk

Funds from federal govt not charity: Gandapur | The Express Tribune

K-P CM assert the provincial govt will persist for its rightful share
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
The Peshawar High Court on Wednesday suspended ECP disqualification proceedings against KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, ARY News reported

The court issued notices to the parties and summoned their reply.

A bench of the high court comprised of Justice Ijaz Anwar and Justice Waqar Ahmed heard the petition.

Justice Ijaz Anwar said that the proceedings not yet started, only notice has been served.

Justice Waqar questioned, if the matter was already being heard by the election commission.

The court remarked that after the Supreme Court’s verdict, no institution has been authorized to declare someone ‘truthful’ and ‘trustworthy’.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) last week accepted a plea seeking the disqualification of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur for hearing.

The election watchdog also directed the chief minister to appear before the District Election Commissioner on March 26.

A two-member ECP bench issued a short order on the plea, maintaining that Ali Amin Gandapur did not submit his assets to the election commission.

In the plea, it was contended that Ali Amin Gandapur had got 735 kanals of land in Dera Ismail Khan transferred in his name unlawfully.

The disqualification plea read that the chief minister KP is not eligible to hold public office. “Ali Amin Gandapur should be disqualified and de-seated as a member of the KP Assembly for submitting a false statement,” the plea maintained.

arynews.tv

PHC restrains ECP disqualification move against KP CM Gandapur

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court on Wednesday suspended ECP disqualification proceedings against KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, ARY News reported.
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has asked the people to hit officers who ask for bribes with a brick on their heads and take his name.

Addressing Syed Aliyan village in Dera Ismail Khan, the KP CM said those taking and giving bribes will go to hell and asked the people not to complain to him about people asking for bribes.

“Hit the person asking for bribes with a brick on their head and tell his children that you saved his father from going to hell,” said CM Gandapur. He added that the people should have some shame and punish people taking bribes on the spot.

The firebrand KP CM, who belongs to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was elected as the 19 chief minister of the province earlier this month by a two-third majority of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly.

In his maiden speech, the KP CM had promised not to allow corruption in government and ensure a clean and transparent system.



Geo TV
 
Cricket Warrior said:
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has asked the people to hit officers who ask for bribes with a brick on their heads and take his name.

Addressing Syed Aliyan village in Dera Ismail Khan, the KP CM said those taking and giving bribes will go to hell and asked the people not to complain to him about people asking for bribes.

“Hit the person asking for bribes with a brick on their head and tell his children that you saved his father from going to hell,” said CM Gandapur. He added that the people should have some shame and punish people taking bribes on the spot.

The firebrand KP CM, who belongs to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was elected as the 19 chief minister of the province earlier this month by a two-third majority of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly.

In his maiden speech, the KP CM had promised not to allow corruption in government and ensure a clean and transparent system.



Geo TV
Click to expand...
Wow what a great announcement but will it change things practically?
 
the way he suggested ppl to smash brick on a head of those who ask for bribe makes me feel he is more running on a 5G these days. :ROFLMAO:
 
Bureaucratic upheaval expected in K-P

With the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) backed independents securing a majority in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), and the party, which is now associated with the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), assuming power for the third consecutive term in the province, significant changes in key bureaucratic positions are expected.

In this regard, Member National Assembly (MNA), Sher Afzal Marwat, a senior leader of the PTI, recently told journalists that discussions had taken place with the party’s founding Chairman, Imran Khan, who advocated for a change in key bureaucrats of the province and a change in leadership of the provincial police force. After Marwat’s presser, demands for the transfer of high-ranking police officials, including the Inspector General (IG) of K-P, Akhtar Hayat Gandapur, have intensified within the PTI ranks, which includes former ministers Taimur Jhagra and Kamran Bangash, who want an overhaul of the administrative setup of the province and the provincial capital, Peshawar. Speaking to The Express Tribune, former information minister, Bangash, said that the election was rigged with the connivance of Deputy Commissioner Peshawar and his team.

“Therefore, until these government officials are transferred, PTI’s protest will continue.” It is also pertinent to mention that recently K-P’s Chief Minister, Ali Amin Gandapur, met with the Prime Minister, Shahbaz Sharif, to discuss the transfer of the provincial police chief and other top bureaucrats.

Sources privy to the developments informed The Express Tribune that after the meeting the K-P government requested that Shahab Ali Shah, who served as the Additional Chief Secretary during former chief minister Mehmood Khan’s tenure, be appointed as the Chief Secretary of the province. While it remains to be seen whether Shah will be posted as Chief Secretary; amidst these calls for a complete upheaval, concerns regarding the lack of prioritisation of governance issues by the new government have increased. For instance, Ahmed Kundi, the Parliamentary Leader of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) in the K-P Assembly, was of the view that if the incumbent government engages in a scuffle with the federation over transfers, then there would be no time for governance.

“The government needs to address fundamental challenges facing the province, such as the demand from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to reassess provincial shares and the recent controversial appointment in the Indus River System Authority,” emphasised Kundi. Similarly, Dr Ibadullah, the Opposition Leader in the K-P Assembly, highlighted a disconnect between the PTI’s current rhetoric and its previous acclaim of the province’s police force.

“In the elections of 2013 and 2018, Tehreek-e-Insaf praised K-P police as exemplary police everywhere, in every street, in every meeting. Imran Khan himself kept singing the praises of the K-P police in the 2018 rallies, but how did the police, which was apparently so good in the province for 10 years, deteriorate in 10 months?” Dr Ibadullah questioned.“

The answer is that the PTI has ruined the bureaucracy in the province. Therefore, the PTI should now focus on issues of the province, rather than making demands,” suggested Dr Ibadullah while talking to The Express Tribune.

SOURCE: The Express Tribune.
 
It's a corrupt province that has a huge influx and infiltration by Afghans.

The main focus needs to be security, apprehending the terrorists and repatriation of the afghans back to their country the military will have to come in and oversee this in kpk since the pti have made a mess in the province regards to security and their leader is open admirer of a state that has always had enmity and its people shown fascist type racism towards pakistanis .

The police , border authorities also need to be monitored to see if they are fascists and don't but greater afghanistan loyalty ahead of the state security.

Country can't progress if these bandits keep attacking institutions and people every other day .

I was just speaking to my relative in azad kashmir and he says there's an afghan family who are renting a farmstead and some farmland in the village and their kids roam around collecting stuff to burn for fuel and knock on doors for money and left over roti .

Like I said if these people have spread to azad kashmir where even pakistanis should not be allowed to settle then God knows how many of these Afghans are in pakistan.
 
Big problem in azad kashmir lower part is many people now live abroad and they have given their properties farms to outsiders Afghans/pathans people from mandi bahuddin , gujrat , saraiki belt etc in some villages most young people are all in Europe and middle east settled .
 
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reached Chief Minister House Peshawar to meet Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur

On the arrival of Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Chief Minister's House, Ali Amin Gandapur introduced him to Khyber. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reiterated their determination to completely eliminate the scourge of terrorism, and also decided to intensify intelligence-based operations against terrorists. In the meeting, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur expressed regret over the death of Chinese citizens in the suicide attack, and expressed full solidarity with the Chinese government, people and the families of the deceased Chinese citizens.

Determined to bring the facilitators to a culpable role. Mohsin Naqvi said that the elements of the attack on Chinese citizens will not really escape punishment. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi directed effective coordination to deal with terrorism and said that anti-national elements cannot defeat the resolve of the Pakistani nation with cowardly acts. We will respond to the enemies of the country with full force. The war against terrorism is the war of Pakistan's survival. He said that he will cooperate with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Ali Amin Gandapur said that law and order is at the top of the priorities of the present provincial government, for this purpose the provincial government will use all available resources, take all possible measures to ensure the safety of the people of the province. Jaenge, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been the most affected by terrorism.

24 News
 
FearlessRoar said:
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reached Chief Minister House Peshawar to meet Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur

On the arrival of Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Chief Minister's House, Ali Amin Gandapur introduced him to Khyber. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reiterated their determination to completely eliminate the scourge of terrorism, and also decided to intensify intelligence-based operations against terrorists. In the meeting, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur expressed regret over the death of Chinese citizens in the suicide attack, and expressed full solidarity with the Chinese government, people and the families of the deceased Chinese citizens.

Determined to bring the facilitators to a culpable role. Mohsin Naqvi said that the elements of the attack on Chinese citizens will not really escape punishment. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi directed effective coordination to deal with terrorism and said that anti-national elements cannot defeat the resolve of the Pakistani nation with cowardly acts. We will respond to the enemies of the country with full force. The war against terrorism is the war of Pakistan's survival. He said that he will cooperate with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Ali Amin Gandapur said that law and order is at the top of the priorities of the present provincial government, for this purpose the provincial government will use all available resources, take all possible measures to ensure the safety of the people of the province. Jaenge, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been the most affected by terrorism.

24 News
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Ali Amin Gandapur ‘advised’ to cut ties with Centre

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Asad Qaiser on Friday advised Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur to cut ties with Centre, saying that it’s time for ‘resistance, not reconciliation’.

In a statement, the former National Assembly (NA) speaker claimed that the federal government, led by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), did not accept any demands tabled by KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur.

“They [the federal government] haven’t appointed any single officer on Gandapur’s behest, while no progress was made on the remaining payments of the province,” Asad Qaiser said.

Advising CM Ali Amin Gandapur to cut ties with Centre, he said that they have to take streets now for supremacy of rule of law.

It is pertinent to mention here that KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur on March 13 met Prime Minister (PM), Shehbaz Sharif belonging to rival Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

Addressing a press conference along with Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, the KP chief minister hailed his first engagement with PM Shehbaz Sharif ‘positive’ and said they discussed public and provincial issues, law and order and other matters.

“It was very positive and he [PM Shehbaz Sharif] assured of his full support, would fulfil his promise and would not lie,” CM Ali Amin Gandapur said.

He stressed the need for ‘collaborative efforts’ to solve public issues and the need for the federal and provincial governments to deliver.

Referring to the letter of six judges of Islamabad High Court (IHC), Qaiser claimed that the top judges were ‘pressurised and threatened’, noting that it was the Supreme Court’s (SC) responsibility to provide full protection to the judges.

He also held Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif responsible for ‘such treatment of honourable judges’, claiming that PTI and the judges were ‘harassed’ during previous tenure of PDM-led government.

arynews.tv

Ali Amin Gandapur ‘advised’ to cut ties with Centre

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Asad Qaiser on Friday advised Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur to cut ties
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Very good. Everything should be digitized as the world is moving towards technology.

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K-P to digitise govt day-to-day affairs
The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to digitise all its day-to-day affairs to ensure transparency as part of the Digital Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa vision.

The decision was disclosed at a meeting of the Science, Technology, and Information Technology Department held on Saturday, with K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur presiding over the session.

The chief minister was briefed extensively on the initiatives and measures undertaken by the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Information Technology Board to advance information and communication technology in the province, alongside forthcoming action plans in this domain.

Special Assistant to Chief Minister on Information Technology Khalid Latif Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Amjad Ali Khan, Secretary of Science and Information Technology Muhammad Ali Shah, and other pertinent officials from the Information Technology Board were present during the meeting.

The chief minister was apprised that the information technology board is actively engaged in various endeavours aimed at digitising government departments, facilitating online civic services, enhancing digital literacy, imparting digital skills to youth, fostering a digital economy, and implementing numerous other ICT-related interventions that have been yielding significant outcomes.

These projects and initiatives encompass digital governance, public service delivery enhancements, citizen facilitation centres establishment, digital workspace implementation, digital stamping integration, integrated farmer registry development, supply chain management system implementation, visitor management system establishment, digital assessment platform deployment, Online admission system implementation, e-payment system integration, online arms license issuance, digital entrepreneurship promotion, talent management platform establishment, digital skills development programme implementation, among others.

Highlighting the significance of information and communication technology in contemporary life, the chief minister underscored the necessity of digitalising government operations to promote transparency and efficiency across departments.

Likewise, he emphasised the crucial need for interventions aimed at transitioning towards a digital economy, equipping youth with digital skills, and fostering digital entrepreneurship.

Additionally, he stressed the importance of providing online civic services to citizens, highlighting the necessity for strategic planning and decisive action.

He further affirmed that the current provincial government is committed to advancing its Digital Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa vision, ensuring the efficient utilisation of modern information and communication technology in achieving these goals.

SOURCE: EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa govt contacts FBR to discuss arrears​


In a statement, Muzamil Aslam said that the telephonic conversation has been made for arrears of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Revenue Authority.

A delegation meeting with FBR on the understanding of cross-input tax adjustment would be made soon, he added.

He said that Rs9.4 billion rupees pending agreement, of which Rs4.1 billion rupees have been received in February 2024 and Rs5.3 billion pending with FBR for reconciliation and settlement.

He said that the FBR officials are likely to meet Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Revenue Authority (KPRA) officials next week for reconciliation.

Earlier on March 13, KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur met Prime Minister (PM), Shehbaz Sharif belonging to rival Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

Addressing a press conference along with Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, the KP chief minister hailed his first engagement with PM Shehbaz Sharif ‘positive’ and said they discussed public and provincial issues, law and order and other matters.

“It was very positive and he [PM Shehbaz Sharif] assured of his full support, would fulfil his promise and would not lie,” CM Ali Amin Gandapur said.

He stressed the need for ‘collaborative efforts’ to solve public issues and the need for the federal and provincial governments to deliver.

arynews.tv

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa govt contacts FBR to discuss arrears

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Finance Adviser Muzamil Aslam on Sunday held a telephonic conversation with Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman to
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 

Court cancels CM Gandapur's arrest warrants​

ISLAMABAD (APP) - A local court on Monday cancelled the arrest warrants of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur in a case about protests and vandalising the public property.

Judicial Magistrate Naveed Khan issued the order and adjourned the hearing of the case against Gandapur till May 20.

Earlier, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur approached the District and Sessions Court of Islamabad to cancel the non-bailable arrest warrant in the long march and vandalism case.

The petition has stated that Ali Amin Gandapur never deliberately avoided appearance in the court. It has been stated in the application that Ali Amin Gandapur could not appear in court due to his election engagements, and he apologizes unconditionally for disobeying the court orders.

The petition has requested that the ongoing non-bailable arrest warrant of Ali Amin Gandapur be cancelled.

Source: Dunya News
 
Ali Amin Gandapur vows to snatch back reserved seats

As Senate polls in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa hit a snag over a dispute on the oath-taking of opposition MPAs elected on reserved seats, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Tuesday said the provincial government would not let these lawmakers take oath, since the reserved seats in question belonged to the PTI.

Those 25 lawmakers — 21 elected on seats reserved for women and four on those meant for non-Muslims —awaited the administration of oaths by Speaker Babar Saleem Swati to participate in the Senate polls, on Tuesday.

They had secured these seats after the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) denied the PTI a share in the reserved seats in the national and provincial assemblies and allocated the same to other parliamentary parties.

Earlier in the day, ECP staff had reached the assembly hall at 8am, while the election material had been transported to the assembly a day earlier. Polling, however, was not held.

“The ECP has illegally denied awarding share to the PTI-SIC [alliance] of reserved seats and allocated our share to the opposition parties,” he said while speaking to the media on the premises of KP Assembly.

The 25 seats reserved for women and non-Muslim lawmakers were the PTI’s right, he said, adding that the political party would not backtrack from its commitments.

He questioned under which law the ECP gave a share of the PTI seats to the opposition parties in the assembly. “The ECP is constantly violating the Constitution; first it deprived the PTI of its symbol ‘bat’ in elections and then handed over its reserved seats to the opposition in the KP Assembly.”

Earlier, KP Assembly Opposition Leader Dr Ibadullah told media persons that it was “very strange that provincial government does not follow any law, constitution and institutions rather it follows the directives of a prisoner (Imran Khan)”.

He said that the opposition wanted to run the affairs of this province according to the law but the provincial government had no intention to do this.

Source: Dunya News
 
K-P to seek royalties to repay loans

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government, led by the PTI, has prepared its case for demanding royalties from the federal government for oil, gas, power, and other outstanding dues to repay foreign loans.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of a sports gala at the Peshawar Press Club, Adviser to the CM on Finance Muzammil Aslam said on Wednesday that the province is burdened with a loan of Rs630 billion.

"We will present our case with evidence before the federal government. If we receive our due share from the federal government, it could provide us with some relief from the loan," he added.

Aslam said the province owes a loan of Rs630 billion to foreign lenders and hopes to repay a significant portion of this loan through payments that the federal government is supposed to make to the province.

The adviser highlighted that besides the remaining dues related to electricity, oil, and gas royalties, the province also deserves additional payments due to the increase in its size after the merger of the formerly Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata) with it.

Aslam emphasized that a significant portion of the provincial budget is allocated towards pension payments and salaries to government officials. However, he claimed that the provincial priorities are evolving under the leadership of K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.

"We are allocating funds for security, salaries' payments, and then for developmental projects. We are also focusing on increasing the province's revenue. Projects for cheap electricity are underway, and work is being done on some new projects as well.

"We will also hold discussions with the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) regarding electricity supply. There is potential for significant revenue in the fields of minerals, timber, and tourism, on which work is being carried out," he added.

SOURCE: EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 
KP CM Gandapur orders construction of dams to cultivate barren land

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur has ordered the agriculture department to introduce a “system of cluster solar tubewells” and construct dams for bringing the maximum barren land under cultivation.

He also asked the department to introduce a modern irrigation system to ensure the careful use of available water in the province.

“This exercise will pave the way for KP’s self-sufficiency in agricultural products and food security,” he told a meeting of the irrigation department at the Chief Minister’s House here.

The meeting was attended by minister for irrigation Aqibullah, additional chief secretary of the planning and development Syed Imtiaz Hussain Shah, principal secretary to the chief minister Amjad Ali Khan, administrative secretaries of the departments concerned, and other relevant officials, according to an official statement Chief Minister’s Secretariat here on Thursday.

The chief minister was given a detailed briefing about the administrative affairs, development projects, reforms, future plans and other related matters of the department.

Mr Gandapur directed authorities to introduce geographic information system for the collection of aabyana (water charges) and other related taxes besides to increase the fixed fines and penalties to prevent water theft and other illegal activities in the province.

He said it was the priority of his government to make KP self-sufficient in agricultural products. He directed the quarters concerned to focus on introducing result-oriented research techniques in the agriculture sector as well as expediting work on the ongoing development projects.

“The Chashma Right Bank Lift Canal project is of vital importance,” he said.

The CM added that the project would help bring millions of acres of barren land of southern districts under cultivation.

He directed authorities to compile realistic data of all small dams and command areas in the province and said the irrigation department should pay special attention to digitise all its affairs as early as possible.

Mr Gandapur directed departments to fix realistic timelines for the contracts of development projects and said contractors would be responsible to ensure progress on the projects as per stipulated timelines.

“If any contractor fails to meet deadlines, fines should be imposed on him,” he said.

The CM also chaired a meeting of the livestock department and said there was considerable potential in the livestock sector to provide employment opportunities and increase the province’s income.

“We just need to develop this productive sector along modern lines to utilise this potential in an effective and useful manner,” he said, directing authorities to come up with a comprehensive and viable plan.

Mr Gandapur directed the livestock department to work on the increase in and value addition of dairy products and initiate a programme for imparting advanced skills and training to people in the livestock sector.

“A specific program should be devised in order to provide interest-free loans to people for rearing good breed cattle,” he said.

Mr Gandapur asked authorities to promote fisheries and come up with a comprehensive strategy for it.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
A much needed action

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CM Gandapur decides to withdraw excise vehicles from unauthorized individuals

Chief Minister’s decision to set up three separate directorates to increase the efficiency of the department.

Separate directorates should be established for vehicle registration and management, intelligence and narcotics control and property tax under the excise department, Ali Amin Gandapur said.

The responsibilities of these directorates should be clearly defined, Chief Minister said, adding, “Necessary amendments should be made in the existing laws to increase the revenue of the department.”

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur also directed the concerned quarters to withdraw excise vehicles used by unauthorized persons. Notices should be issued to these unauthorized persons to return the vehicles, the Chief Minister told the meeting.

If they do not return the vehicles within the stipulated time, FIRs should be registered against them, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur said. These vehicles should be given to police and other provincial departments on the basis of need, Ali Amin Gandapur said.

Defunct vehicles parked in Excise warehouses should be auctioned in a transparent manner, Chief Minister said, adding, “These vehicles should not be given to anyone on political recommendation.”

Complete documentation should be done for the authorized government people to be given vehicles, the Chief Minister said.

He said a mechanism should be made to collect commercial tax on rented houses and steps would be taken to determine the actual rents of rented houses.

He said, GIS system should be introduced to ensure transparency and collection of property tax.

A workable plan should be set up to develop all the affairs of the department on modern lines, Ali Amin Gandapur told the meeting.

He said, implementation of this plan should be ensured according to the timelines and he believes in on-ground implementation rather than presentation.

The Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa said that to increase the tax net, work should be done outside the traditional way. To gain the confidence of the people in relation to the payment of taxes, the taxes should be taken from the rich and spent on the poor while the punishment system within the department should be strengthened. Employees with good performance should be fully encouraged, Ali Amin Gandapur concluded.

arynews.tv

CM Gandapur decides to withdraw excise vehicles from unauthorized individuals

PESHAWAR: Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur Friday chaired an important meeting of the Excise and Taxation Department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and has taken
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 

No cabinet meeting at Corps Commander’s house, says Barrister Saif​


“Following tradition, an Iftar dinner was hosted at the Corps Commander’s office instead of a formal cabinet meeting,” stated Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, the advisor to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for Information.

Speaking to the private news channel, Barrister Saif clarified that an Iftar dinner was held at the Corps Commander Headquarters in Peshawar, where the Chief Minister, his aides, and cabinet members met with military officials and were briefed on the security situation.

He explained that no formal cabinet meeting took place at the Corps Commander Headquarters; instead, an Iftar invitation was accepted as per customary practices.

Barrister Saif emphasized that the briefing room at the Corps Commander’s office is designated for security matters, underscoring the government’s commitment to active engagement and cooperation with the military on security issues. A question and answer session followed the security briefing.

Furthermore, he noted that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur also addressed the session, discussing the security situation and government initiatives.

Barrister Saif raised concerns about the circulation of rumors, stating, “If we don’t sit with our own army, will we sit with the Indian army? Some individuals are trying to revive their failed politics by spreading rumors.”

thepakistandaily.com

No cabinet meeting at Corps Commander's house, says Barrister Saif – The Pakistan Daily

PESHAWAR: "Following tradition, an Iftar dinner was hosted at the Corps Commander's office instead of a formal cabinet meeting," stated Barrister
thepakistandaily.com thepakistandaily.com
 
KP govt announces launch of air ambulance service, health policy

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced the launch of an air ambulance service and the declaration of Peshawar's Hayatabad area as a healthcare city.

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur chaired a meeting of the health department at the Chief Minister's House, where these decisions were made, signalling a proactive approach towards improving healthcare infrastructure and accessibility.

During the meeting, Chief Minister Gandapur instructed relevant authorities to take steps to launch the air ambulance service within the next four months. Additionally, plans were also shared to establish an emergency motorbike response unit equipped with essential medical facilities, catering to densely populated areas of the province.

Furthermore, a health information and service delivery unit will be established to ensure the provision of quality treatment in government hospitals.

One of the key highlights of the healthcare reforms includes the introduction of an executive health check-up program for senior citizens aged 65 and above. Under this program, free check-ups will be available every three months in government hospitals.

The chief minister emphasized the importance of improving healthcare facilities at the grassroots level, directing authorities to provide ultrasound, operation theatre, and gynaecology services in primary health centres and rural health centres.

Furthermore, he stressed the necessity of ensuring the availability of all relevant staff, including doctors, at these healthcare facilities round the clock.

Gandapur also ordered the preparation of a new integrated health policy for the province within a month. This policy is expected to outline strategic objectives and action plans to address various healthcare challenges and improve service delivery across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

SAMAA
 

Increase in BRT Peshawar fare on cards to 'cut billions of rupees' loss'​


The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is deliberating over hiking the fare of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Peshawar in an attempt to control the billions of rupees’ loss per year, Geo News reported quoting sources as saying on Monday.

The official sources said the yearly loss of BRT Peshawar crossed Rs6 billion, hence, multiple options including raising the BRT fare were being considered to overcome the loss.

The sources said that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Urban Mobility Authority has proposed to the provincial finance department to increase the fare. They said that if the fare is increased by Rs5 per passenger then it can generate an additional revenue of Rs670 million. Whereas, an additional revenue of Rs1.36 billion could be generated if Rs10 is hiked.

They said that despite the growth in the number of people travelling in BRT, the subsidy is being jacked up every year. Each passenger is being given a subsidy of Rs50 from the government treasury, as a fare of Rs28 is being collected from a passenger, while the cost is Rs80, they maintained.

As per the government sources, BRT's monthly cost of electricity and diesel is more than Rs200 million. The finance department has sought more proposals from the relevant authorities to save the BRT from losses.

The sources said a recommendation was forwarded to the caretaker government to enhance the BRT fare, but they left the decision to the elected government.

Advisor to KP Chief Minister for Finance Muzzammil Aslam told Geo News that it is inevitable to increase the fare of BRT as inflation has increased. He has asked for a proposal to increase the fare of BRT as little as possible, he said.

Aslam said TransPeshawar has been directed to cut expenditures of the BRT. The company has also been directed to review contracts with contractors, he said.

Chief Executive Officer TransPeshawar Tariq Usman, while talking to Geo News, said that the loss of BRT has increased because of not increasing the fares. Electricity and diesel prices have doubled in two years but the fare has not been increased, he said.

www.thenews.com.pk

Increase in BRT Peshawar fare on cards

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is deliberating over hiking the fare of Bus Rapid Transit Peshawar in an attempt to control the billions of rupees’ loss per year, Geo News...
www.thenews.com.pk www.thenews.com.pk
 
Naan bread price cut by Rs5

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has announced a significant reduction in the price of nan bread, aimed at easing the financial burden on the public.

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur disclosed this decision on Monday following discussions with the Provincial Minister for Food, Zahir Shah Toru, and the Secretary of Food.

As per the notification issued, the new prices for 100-gram roti will be set at Rs15, while 200-gram roti will be priced at Rs30. Minister for Food, Zahir Shah Toru, emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of the people, noting that additional measures of a similar nature are under consideration.

Stringent measures will be taken against bakeries found guilty of overpricing, as warned by the minister. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the district administration of Peshawar has initiated a comprehensive crackdown against profiteers operating across the district.

On Sunday, approximately 42 shopkeepers, including butchers, milk vendors, vegetable, and fruit sellers, were apprehended and detained for overpricing.

Additionally, another two dozen received warnings. Special teams have been formed by the District Administration to scrutinize price lists in shops, responding to public grievances about the significant price hikes during Eid festivities, which had gone unnoticed by the authorities.

Notably, the price of tomatoes soared to Rs500 per kilogram in the local retail market in Peshawar, likely due to limited supplies during Eid, leading to widespread discontent. Despite the conclusion of Ramazan, when prices typically decreased, tomato rates remained high in the city. While the exact cause remains uncertain, retailers suggest that the constrained supply during the Eid holidays played a significant role.

“During Eid holidays, wholesale markets remain open, but both farmers and consumers refrain from bringing their produce to market, creating an artificial shortage of vegetables and fruits,” explained a shopkeeper to reporters.

While wholesale dealers usually store potatoes and some other vegetables, tomatoes have a limited shelf life and require cold storage, he added, expressing hope that the price surge would be temporary.

Despite assurances, both the provincial and district governments struggled to curb the prices of essential commodities during Ramazan, despite frequent raids and inspections. Furthermore, during Eid, these enforcement efforts were suspended due to official holidays.

SOURCE: EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 
PHC orders KP CM to convene assembly session for oath-taking

The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has directed the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister and cabinet to convene the assembly session within a fortnight to ensure that those elected on reserved seats for women and non-Muslims take oath.

A PHC bench comprising Justice Syed Mohammad Attique Shah and Justice Shakeel Ahmad, in its 24-page detailed judgement on three identical petitions filed by around 20 MPAs-elect of the opposition in KP, also ordered the provincial assembly speaker to administer the oath to the said MPAs-elect in the session to be requisitioned in accordance with the court order.

While the bench in its March 27 short order had not issued any such directive to the CM and the provincial cabinet, the court in its detailed judgement ordered both to “take all material steps in terms of Article 109 along with all enabling provisions of the Constitution for summoning the session of the provincial assembly within fortnight positively, after receipt of this judgement, so that the oath is administered to the petitioners in term of Article 65 of the Constitution before the upcoming Senate election”.

The PHC in its short order had directed the speaker to administer the oath to the petitioners in the session convened for Senate election of April 2 and also to facilitate voting in the election. But the ECP had to postpone the Senate polls in the province making it conditional with the said oath-taking, as no session was convened by the KP government.

Now multiple petitions have been filed in the high court — one by the speaker requesting the court to review its order and others by the MPAs-elect seeking implementation of the short order and initiating contempt proceedings against the speaker and the deputy speaker.

The PHC in its judgement observed that owing to a dispute over allocation of reserved seats, with the exception of Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) that has a majority in KP Assembly, the present dispensation was resisting oath to those who represent marginalised communities in order to deny them the right to participate in the assembly proceedings and also to deprive them of exercising their right to vote in the April 2 Senate election in violation of the Constitution.

Referring to the notifications issued by the ECP of declaring the petitioners as MPAs elected on reserved seats, the court ruled that after receipt of the said notification, the assembly secretary was obliged under the law to have informed the CM to requisition the assembly session to administer oath to the petitioners accordingly, but he failed to discharge his constitutional obligations for reasons best known to him.

The petitioners, including Shazia Tehmas Khan and 19 other MPAs belonging to the PPP-P, PML-N, JUI-F and PTI-P, had requested the court to declare illegal and unconstitutional the failure of both speaker and deputy speaker to call the assembly’s sitting for administering oath.

SOURCE: DAWN
 

Is it the right decision or a harsh one?​

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KP Bans Fireworks at Weddings and Gatherings​


During a recent meeting of the Provincial Apex Committee meeting, chaired by CM KP Ali Amin Gandapur, the decision to enforce a complete ban on fireworks during weddings and similar gatherings across the province was made.

The meeting also delved into various issues including security concerns, governance matters, and regulatory protocols within the region.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous agreement to impose a total ban on fireworks during weddings and similar occasions across KP.

The decision was made to prioritize public safety and minimize risks associated with celebrations and gatherings. In addition to the ban on fireworks, participants of the meeting also reached a consensus on the proper registration of 3,571 schools across the province.

The meeting also addressed the issue of illegal Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards, with plans to block over 9 million such SIMs. Unregistered SIMs pose a major national security risk, as they have been used in the past to carry out terrorist attacks.

To tackle cross-border smuggling, the meeting decided to raise the matter of non-custom paid vehicles with the federal government.

Furthermore, it was also decided to grant the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) the authority to take direct action against extortion networks. Key civil and military officials, including the Corps Commander, were present at the meeting.

propakistani.pk

KP Bans Fireworks at Weddings and Gatherings

During a recent meeting of the Provincial Apex Committee meeting, chaired by CM KP Ali Amin Gandapur, the decision to enforce a complete ban on fireworks
propakistani.pk propakistani.pk
 
KP CM Gandapur orders construction of Tank Zam Dam

Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur has ordered construction of Tank Zam Dam to bring barren land in southern districts under cultivation and to produce cheap electricity.

The project, according to a statement issued from the Chief Minister’s House, would help reduce possible flood damage in the region.

Mr Gandapur issued these directives during a meeting held in Islamabad on Saturday.

The meeting discussed different irrigation projects with special focus on construction of Chashma Right Bank Canal and Tank Zam Dam.

The statement said the construction of Tank Zam Dam would help utilise available water resources in an effective and useful manner, preserving the natural water resources as well as implementing the provincial government’s vision to ensure food security.

Relevant officials informed the meeting that the dam project, once completed, would irrigate about 0.1 million acres of barren land in southern districts and would generate 25.5MW hydropower.

Mr Gandapur said construction of small dams was required to ensure food security in the province, adding that funds required for such projects would be provided on a priority basis.

Additional chief secretary planning and development Syed Imtiaz Hussain Shah, secretary irrigation Tahir Orkazai, officials from relevant federal and provincial departments also attended the meeting.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
ECP summons CM Gandapur in assets case

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) summoned Chief Minister (CM) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur in assets beyond income case, ARY News reported.

According to the details, the ECP directed CM Gandapur to appear in person on Tuesday and submit an explanation regarding his assets.

Earlier, the ECP accepted a plea seeking the disqualification of the chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur for a hearing. A two-member ECP bench issued a short order on the plea, maintaining that Ali Amin Gandapur did not submit his assets to the election commission.

In the plea, it was contended that Ali Amin Gandapur had got 735 kanals of land in Dera Ismail Khan transferred in his name unlawfully.

The disqualification plea read that the chief minister KP is not eligible to hold public office. “Ali Amin Gandapur should be disqualified and de-seated as a member of the KP Assembly for submitting a false statement,” the plea maintained.

Meanwhile, CM Gandapur moved to the Peshawar High Court and challenged the ECP’s notice in the case.

The chief minister maintained in the plea that all election-related documents have been submitted and there is no justification for the ECP’s notice.

The petition argued that the returning officer has already verified the nomination papers, and the ECP has no authority to take action against the chief minister.


ARY News
 
PHC bars Punjab police from arresting CM Gandapur

As per details, the court, comprising Justice S M Ateeq Shah and Justice Waqar Ahmed, heard the case and directed to file a petition in Lahore High Court within 30 days seeking details of cases registered against the Chief Minister including those in NAB and FIA.

The court told the KP government to take up the matter of case details with the Punjab Government. Ali Amin Ganadapur is the Chief Executive of a province and what impression would it leave if he is arrested.

In a separate development earlier, the Peshawar High Court (PHC) suspended the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) notice summoning Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur in assets case.

A two-member bench of the Peshawar High Court comprising Justice SM Attiq Shah and Justice Shakeel Ahmed suspended the ECP notice.

During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel contended that it was no longer the authority of ECP to ask for the previous year’s assets’ details, adding that all the details were available on the website of the Election Commission.

In another case pertaining to PTI’s ‘Haqiqi Azadi March, a local court in Islamabad canceled the arrest warrants of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.

arynews.tv

PHC bars Punjab police from arresting CM Gandapur

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has barred the Punjab police and other agencies from arresting Chief Minister Amin Gandapur in any case, ARY News
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Your governor won’t be allowed to enter KP house, Gandapur warns Bilawal

Speaking to a private News channel, CM Gandapur said that a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader of Karachi was ‘barred’ from entering Sindh House.

“From now on, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi cannot enter KP House. If I challenge, even Bilawal Bhutto Zardari cannot make it to the KP Governor House,” he added

He told Bilawal to either build a new Governor’s House for Faisal Karim Kundi or provide a place to him in Sindh House.

“When I was arrested, they took me to Karachi. If forced, I can pick their supporters and bring them to KP,” he added.

CM Gandapur said that he will retrieve the ‘stolen’ mandate at any cost. “If we do not get justice from the courts, we will snatch it,” the chief minister said.

Earlier on May 1, CM Gandapur on Tuesday asserted that PTI will topple the PML-N led federal government whenever party founder Imran Khan instructs to do so

Speaking at ARY News programme ‘Khabar’, CM Gandapur said that PTI founder Imran Khan had always expressed willingness to talk to everyone for the sake of Pakistan. “Imran Khan has no personal agenda and would only holds talks for betterment of Pakistan,” he added.

He also mentioned that PTI had never previously mentioned any conditions for talks, and that he had only recently been told that he, along with two others, had been given the responsibility of negotiating on behalf of the party.

arynews.tv

Your governor won't be allowed to enter KP house, Gandapur warns Bilawal

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur on Monday warned Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
This is what we've all been talking about. PTI has to stop practicing politics fueled by hatred.
 
FearlessRoar said:
Your governor won’t be allowed to enter KP house, Gandapur warns Bilawal

Speaking to a private News channel, CM Gandapur said that a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader of Karachi was ‘barred’ from entering Sindh House.

“From now on, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi cannot enter KP House. If I challenge, even Bilawal Bhutto Zardari cannot make it to the KP Governor House,” he added

He told Bilawal to either build a new Governor’s House for Faisal Karim Kundi or provide a place to him in Sindh House.

“When I was arrested, they took me to Karachi. If forced, I can pick their supporters and bring them to KP,” he added.

CM Gandapur said that he will retrieve the ‘stolen’ mandate at any cost. “If we do not get justice from the courts, we will snatch it,” the chief minister said.

Earlier on May 1, CM Gandapur on Tuesday asserted that PTI will topple the PML-N led federal government whenever party founder Imran Khan instructs to do so

Speaking at ARY News programme ‘Khabar’, CM Gandapur said that PTI founder Imran Khan had always expressed willingness to talk to everyone for the sake of Pakistan. “Imran Khan has no personal agenda and would only holds talks for betterment of Pakistan,” he added.

He also mentioned that PTI had never previously mentioned any conditions for talks, and that he had only recently been told that he, along with two others, had been given the responsibility of negotiating on behalf of the party.

arynews.tv

Your governor won't be allowed to enter KP house, Gandapur warns Bilawal

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur on Monday warned Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari
arynews.tv arynews.tv
Click to expand...
Now that is something very odd by PTI.

KPK is also part of Pakistan how could you make it a territory where someone will ask for permission before entering?
 
Wheat procurement from local farmers to save govt Rs12bn, claims Gandapur

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur on Wednesday said his government would save Rs12 billion by purchasing wheat from local farmers and the money would be utilised for construction and renovation of wheat warehouses.

He stated said this during a visit to the provincial reserve centre of the food department, where he formally inaugurated the process of wheat procurement for the current season.

Provincial minister for food Zahir Shah Toru and high-ups of food department and district administration were also present. Addressing a ceremony on the occasion, Mr Gandapur said 300,000 metric tonnes of wheat would be procured from farmers of the province, out of which 40,000 metric tonnes was being purchased from Dera farmers.

He said total procurement at the rate of Rs3,900 per 40kg would cost Rs29 billion.

“It will be ensured that formers are provided with their due rights without any hindrance,” he said, adding necessary steps had been taken to make the procurement process transparent. He said committees had also been formed at the district level in addition to establishing a control room and introducing an app for the purpose.

Gandapur said: “Not buying wheat from Pakistan Agricultural Storage & Services Corporation Limited would result in a benefit of Rs12 billion, which would be utilised for construction and maintenance of warehouses.”

The chief minister made it clear that wheat procurement would be carried out on the basis of first come, first served basis.

He asked the farmers’ community to come forward and play their proactive role in implementing the provincial government’s policy aimed at ensuring wheat procurement in an efficient and transparent manner.

He made it clear that the provincial government had decided to have zero tolerance policy against corruption and bribery in all the departments, adding all possible steps would be taken to ensure transparency in all government matters, including postings and transfers.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
CM Gandapur asks Centre to grant KP rights or ‘face consequences’

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur has warned the federal government against usurping province’s rights, saying that they will take drastic measures and no one should “call them traitors”.

Addressing a press conference, the chief minister said that his government would go all-out to protect the province’s resources and the residents’ rights, demanding the federal government to release Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (KP) funds immediately.

Despite paying heavy bills, CM Ali Amin Gandapur criticised the federal government for not providing adequate electricity and gas to the province.

He said that the province is facing severe energy issues, and the federal government was not providing sufficient electricity and gas, which has led to a significant increase in prices.

Gandapur mentioned that during Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) tenure, electricity was available at Rs16 per unit, but now it has increased to Rs 65 per unit. He questioned where the money is going and why the system has not been improved despite the province’s contributions.

He emphasised that the province’s issues will be resolved, and they will fight for their rights. He warned that if their rights are not granted, they will take drastic measures, and no one should call them traitors.

Furthermore, the KP chief minister reiterated his commitment to rooting out corruption and promoting meritocracy in the province.

He stated that his message on corruption is clear: both the giver and taker of bribes will be punished, and no one will be spared.

He warned that there will be no mercy for those who engage in corruption, and the government will take stern action against them. He emphasised that his government is committed to transparency and accountability, and all efforts will be made to ensure that the province progresses and prospers.

Gandapur announced that changes are being made to ensure that only deserving individuals get jobs, and the “era of influence” is over. He added that those who perform well will be rewarded, and the culture of merit will be promoted.

The chief minister also referred to the past injustices faced by his party, stating that what was done to them was against the law and constitution. He said that they have forgiven the past and now want to move forward and work for the progress of the country.

arynews.tv

CM Gandapur asks Centre to grant KP rights or ‘face consequences’

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur has warned the federal government against usurping province’s rights, saying that
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Faisal Karim Kundi warns Gandapur against ‘eyeing’ Governor House

Addressing a ceremony, Kundi stated that he will not indulge in ‘political vendetta’ and will instead work tirelessly for the betterment of the province.

Responding to CM Gandapur’s statement, he said: “You have become the Chief Minister, now serve the people and work for their welfare”.

He emphasised that all efforts will be made to improve the province, and everyone will be taken on board for this purpose.

Kundi lambasted his political opponents, saying they are worried about their own incompetence and are spreading rumors about Governor Raj.

He challenged them to come forward and test their strength, but warned that they will not find any support in the province.

“If you try to occupy the Governor House, come and try it, but you will be dragged through the streets.” He claimed that he has experience in handling the political opponents.

A day earlier, CM Gandapur issued a stern warning, stating that any attempt to impose governor Raj will be met with resistance.

He warned against resorting to disruptive tactics, stating that any attempt to derail progress would be met with staunch opposition.

“I will not remain silent for the chief minister’s seat, and if governor Raj is imposed, we will take over the governor’s house,” Gandapur said.

arynews.tv

Faisal Karim Kundi warns Gandapur against ‘eyeing’ Governor House

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Governor Faisal Karim Kundi on Friday warned Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur against ‘eyeing’ Governor House,
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
In this country, all politicians are staging dramas to rival each other, and no one cares about the welfare of their people.
 
KP governor, CM Gandapur exchange threats in acrid spat

The acrimony between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur and Governor Faisal Karim Kundi intensified on Saturday when the two leaders threatened each other with “dire consequences”.

A day after the governor’s fiery speech, Chief Minister Gandapur warned Governor Kundi to stay within the limits of his constitutional position and avoid making olitical statements.

After appearing in an anti-terrorism court in connection with the murder of former KP law minister Sardar Israrullah Khan Gandapur, the CM who belongs to the PTI said he could use his powers to banish Mr Kundi from Governor House.

“This Governor House is not your property. Don’t force me to … turn it into a museum and open it for the public.”

“I will shift you to a two-room annexe,” said Mr Gandapur. He went on to say that even fuel for the governor’s official vehicles comes from the budget of the provincial government and threatened to stop it if the governor who belongs to PPP didn’t refrain from “political statements, below-the-belt remarks and confrontation”.

“You’re the governor; politics is not your job,” Mr Gandapur warned, calling himself the elected representative who came to power with the voters’ mandate.

The CM added that if the governor did not pay heed to his “warning”, he would seek his removal.

“[T]he letter which notified you [as governor] will also denotify you.”

In a hard-hitting speech on Friday, Governor Kundi had indirectly accused the CM of being involved in the killing of former law minister Mr Israrullah and ANP leader Umar Khattab Sherani.

Mr Israrullah was killed in a suicide attack in his hometown of Kulachi near Dera Ismail Khan in October 2013. While government officials blamed the Waziristan-based Gandapur group for the bombing, a little-known shadowy group, Ansarul Mujahideen, claimed responsibility.

ANP’s Mr Sherani was murdered in December 2021, a day before the province’s local government elections, which he was contesting as a candidate for the post of D.I. Khan mayor.

The governor said that if he relinquished his constitutional post, he would prove to be a bigger nemesis for CM Gandapur.

Mr Kundi also warned that protecting the Governor House was “his constitutional duty” and whoever tried to occupy it “would be dragged on roads”.

This was an apparent reply to Mr Gandapur’s May 9 statement in which he warned against efforts to impose governor’s rule in KP and said PTI activists would occupy the Governor House.

‘Want good ties with CM’

Meanwhile, in conversation with Dawn, Mr Kundi said he hoped for good relations with the chief minister, but whoever talked about occupying the Governor House “will be answered befittingly”.

People of KP shouldn’t suffer in the fight between the prime minister, governor and chief minister, he said, advising the provincial government to improve the law and order situation.

He recalled the kidnapping of a sessions judge in Tank last month and claimed the chief minister paid extortion money for his release.

Expected animosity

The acrimonious relationship between the two leaders — both being bitter political rivals hailing from D.I.Khan — was expected since Mr Kundi was nominated for the post by his party’s chairman, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari.

The CM expressed his disapproval of the appointment by not attending Mr Kundi’s oath-taking ceremony last Saturday.

A few days later, on May 8, the governor KP did not sign a summary moved by the provincial government to convene an assembly session, forcing the provincial government to requisition the session through the speaker to present the current fiscal budget, according to sources.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
KP treasury to approve budget despite reservations

Treasury members in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly on Monday announced that they would approve budget for the current financial year despite reservations as it was mostly utilised by the last caretaker government.

During an assembly session chaired by Speaker Babar Saleem Swati and called to discuss the budget 2023-24, those lawmakers complained that they had a minimal share in the spending, as out of Rs1.35 trillion, over Rs1.15 trillion was spent during the caretaker setup.

They said that a special committee should be formed to “investigate” the expenditure.

Former speaker of the assembly Mushtaq Ahmad Ghani said the house was discussing the budget of the unconstitutional caretaker government, which stayed beyond its stipulated period of 90 days.

He also insisted that the funds were used against the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf.

“Under what law did the caretaker government approve schemes?”

Mr Ghani said the house was under a constitutional obligation to pass the budget but it would do so despite reservations as it belonged to the last caretaker government.

He said the Public Accounts Committee and the National Accountability Bureau should investigate spending by the caretakers.

MPA Laiq Mohammad Khan accused the caretaker government of committing Rs11 billion worth of corruption and illegally recruiting 4,500 people and insisted he could provide evidence for it.

He requested the speaker to put off discussion on the budget and order an investigation into his assertions.

“A special committee should be formed to probe the corruption of and illegal recruitments by caretakers,” he said.

Special assistant to the chief minister for industries, commerce and technical education Abdul Karim Khan said the federal government paid more than 92 per cent of KP’s expenditure but didn’t pay tobacco cess and arrears of hydel power, oil, and gas.

He also said the police used the funds, which were meant for maintaining law and order in the province, against the PTI.

“All decisions made by the caretakers should be declared void,” he said.

Earlier, Leader of the Opposition Dr Ibadullah Khan of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz told the house that the opposition would jointly fight the provincial government’s funding case.

He added that it was the job of the province’s chief executive to argue the case with the centre and if he did so, the opposition would support him.

Dr Ibadullah wondered how much money was provided by the PTI government in the centre to the PTI government in KP between 2018 and 2022.

“How much money did [Prime Minister] Imran Khan’s government give away under the divisible pool for the merged tribal districts of our province in four years?”

The opposition leader said if, according to the budget speech, one per cent of the divisible pool for law and order totalled Rs91 billion, where the funds were spent for 10 years when the chief minister’s constituency itself was a no-go area.

He also questioned how a district and sessions judge was kidnapped and freed.

“If the government paid ransom to anti-state elements for the release of the judge, it strengthened them,” he said.

Awami National Party member Arbab Usman said the provincial government complained about unavailability of funds, but it itself was not releasing funds to local government representatives.

“Instead of criticising, we are willing to work with you,” he told treasury members.

Mr Usman said the government should focus on exploring oil and gas reservoirs, as there were provisions after the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

PML-N MPA Sobia Shahid said that the current provincial government sought details of the spending during the caretaker government but won’t share details of their own nine years of government in the province.

“They [PTI] spent the government’s nine-year earnings from the province on the May 9 violence,” she alleged, triggering a ruckus in the house.

The speaker adjourned the sitting for today (Tuesday) at 2pm after treasury members pointed out a lack of quorum.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
Governor’s entry banned in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa house

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Ali Amin Gandapur has ‘banned’ entry of Governor Faisal Karim Kundi in the KP house as a block reserved for the governor has been abolished.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Adviser Barrister Saif has confirmed the development.

Saif said the decision, taken during the latest meeting of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Cabinet, aims to address the pressing accommodation issues faced by ministers and members of the provincial assembly.

The now-defunct governor’s annexe will be repurposed to accommodate the needs of provincial assembly members and ministers.

Barrister Saif said that alternative accommodation is being arranged for Governor Faisal Karim Kundi at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House. In the interim, the governor is advised to stay at Sindh House.

After a war of words between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur for several days, the former on Sunday vowed to extend all possible support to provincial government for resolving issues of people rather than indulging in confrontation.

Addressing a press conference at Kundi Model Farm, he said that after taking oath as governor, he always wanted to work for the betterment of people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including former Fata. “I repeatedly wished to work together with the provincial government for the development and welfare of the province,” he said.

arynews.tv

Governor's entry banned in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa house

ISLAMABAD: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Ali Amin Gandapur has 'banned' entry of Governor Faisal Karim Kundi in the KP house as a block reserved for the governor
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
CM Gandapur threatens to take control of PESCO office

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister (CM) Ali Amin Gandapur has threatened to take control of office of Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) if ‘loadshedding isn’t reduced by tonight’, ARY News reported on Wednesday.

The KP chief minister, in a statement, warned the federal government and Energy Minister that he would take over the PESCO office if ‘loadshedding isn’t reduced by tonight’.

CM Gandapur noted that the provincial government has asked multiple times to solve the issues, asking the authorities to change schedule by tonight.

He demanded that the federal government provide relief to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, who according to him are facing 22 hours of load shedding, by reducing it to 18 hours.

The chief minister warned that if the schedule is not changed, he will take drastic measures, including taking control of grid stations and PESCO office. He clarified that this is not a warning, but a timeline for action.

Earlier, CM Gandapur castigated the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led federal government over expensive electricity and “worst load-shedding”, asking the Centre to pay its KP dues.

The provincial chief executive said: “Electricity is being supplied to our people at high rates. It would be their mistake if they [Centre] think that we will remain silent on this injustice.”

The federal government had to clear KP’s Rs1.51 trillion dues under Net Hydel Profit, he added.

“In the [previous] PTI’s term, electricity was being provided at Rs15 per unit. [But] now, the utility’s rate is Rs65 per unit and it is not even available.”

“I am not seeking charity for our people,” he told the federal government.


ARY News
 

CM Gandapur gives Centre 15-day ultimatum to fix KP electricity issues​


Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gundapur has threatened to take over the Peshawar Electric Supply Company (Pesco) if it fails to extend relief to the people of the province within 15 days.

He was addressing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly on Friday.

The KP CM said the Pakistan Tehreek Insaf (PTI) had been victimised and oppressed but the people gave the party mandate despite their symbol was snatched.

“The federal government’s attitude is intolerable. We will not be silent. We are demanding our rights,” he stated, adding that numerous requests were made to the centre but to no avail. The province needs Rs50 billion in two months, he added.

He said said FATA people were left alone due to operation against the terrorists.

“We have not been paid any money till date. The time of fooling the people has gone,” he said.

Talking about electricity outages, he said the federation had been collecting Rs1,510 billion from the KP.

“People of my province should not be called thieves and I will not tolerate these remarks against them,” said the chief minister.

“Nothing can break my leader as he is still facing the jail with utmost courage for the people,” he held.

dunyanews.tv

CM Gandapur gives Centre 15-day ultimatum to fix KP electricity issues

Says rigged constituencies will be opened
dunyanews.tv dunyanews.tv
 

In a first, KP Assembly to present budget on May 25 before federal govt​

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced to present the budget for the coming financial year on May 25 before the federal government.

For the first time in history, PTI-backed SIC Aftab Alam will present the provincial budget before the federal government.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Finance Minister said that the opposition should talk positively instead of criticizing the upcoming budget.

A session of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly was held under the chair of Speaker Babar Saleem Swati.

The provincial assembly passed a resolution paying homage to the President of Iran and offered condolence to the Iranian people.

PPP lawmaker Ahmed Karim Kundi submitted the resolution to pay tribute to the late Iranian President who lost his life in a plane crash en route Tabraiz after inaugurating dam near the Azaerbijan border.

The provincial assembly session has been adjourned for an indefinite period.

Source: SAMAA
 
I don't think it is important to announce a budget earlier, the important thing should be to announce a good budget that makes people happy and satisfied.
 
Gandapur not invited in SIFC meeting , shocking behaviour from stakeholders
 
KP CM opposes tax on Naswar in budget 2024

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur Friday opposed taxing Naswar in the upcoming budget of the province.

The proposal to tax Naswar was forwarded in the meeting of the KP cabinet, chaired by CM Ali Amin Gandapur to approve proposals for budget 2024.

Gandapur opposing the proposal said Naswar is used by poor people and this should not be taxed in the upcoming budget.

Naswar is a moist, powdered tobacco dip consumed mostly in Afghanistan, and surrounding countries, including Pakistan, India and neighboring Central Asian republics.

It is stuffed in the floor of the mouth under the lower lip, or inside the cheek known as Butt style stuffing, for extended periods of time, usually for 15 to 30 minutes.

According to medical experts, the severity of Naswar addiction could result in severe gum infections, jaw complications, and the loss of multiple teeth. It’s harmful effects extend beyond oral health, potentially causing bone loss, stomach disorders, and facial disfigurement.

It may also contribute to an increase in heart rate with cardiac vascular complications, and in some cases, it can lead to more severe conditions like mouth and oral cancer.

arynews.tv

KP CM opposes tax on Naswar in budget 2024

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur Friday opposed taxing Naswar in the upcoming budget of the province. The proposal to tax
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
FearlessRoar said:
KP CM opposes tax on Naswar in budget 2024

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur Friday opposed taxing Naswar in the upcoming budget of the province.

The proposal to tax Naswar was forwarded in the meeting of the KP cabinet, chaired by CM Ali Amin Gandapur to approve proposals for budget 2024.

Gandapur opposing the proposal said Naswar is used by poor people and this should not be taxed in the upcoming budget.

Naswar is a moist, powdered tobacco dip consumed mostly in Afghanistan, and surrounding countries, including Pakistan, India and neighboring Central Asian republics.

It is stuffed in the floor of the mouth under the lower lip, or inside the cheek known as Butt style stuffing, for extended periods of time, usually for 15 to 30 minutes.

According to medical experts, the severity of Naswar addiction could result in severe gum infections, jaw complications, and the loss of multiple teeth. It’s harmful effects extend beyond oral health, potentially causing bone loss, stomach disorders, and facial disfigurement.

It may also contribute to an increase in heart rate with cardiac vascular complications, and in some cases, it can lead to more severe conditions like mouth and oral cancer.

arynews.tv

KP CM opposes tax on Naswar in budget 2024

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur Friday opposed taxing Naswar in the upcoming budget of the province. The proposal to tax
arynews.tv arynews.tv
Click to expand...
Maybe he consumes himself, that's why
 
Ali Amin Gandapur receives last-minute invitation to SIFC meeting

In a significant development for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has clinched an invitation to the pivotal Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) meeting, scheduled in Islamabad today, May 25.

The gathering, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, aims to greenlight crucial investment projects vital for the region's development.

Initially overlooked for an invitation, the absence of KP's representation raised concerns. However, in a welcome turn of events, the Federation extended an invitation to Chief Minister Gandapur, marking a pivotal step towards inclusive decision-making.

Expressing his gratitude, Gandapur affirmed his attendance at the meeting, emphasizing the importance of KP's participation in endorsing projects crucial for the region's prosperity. "I will definitely attend the meeting," he assured during a special conversation with Samaa TV.

The inclusion of KP's chief in the SIFC meeting underscores a commitment to equitable development across Pakistan's regions. Projects earmarked for special investment will undergo scrutiny and potentially receive approval during this pivotal session, promising strides toward economic growth and prosperity for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.


Samaa TV
 
KP cutting expenses as centre not clearing dues: CM aide

Adviser to the chief minister on finance Muzzammil Aslam on Friday that the provincial government was reducing its expenses as the federal government was not clearing its dues.

During a post-budget news conference here, Mr Aslam complained that the province hadn’t received a single penny from the centre as net hydel profit.

He said the provincial government would receive Rs1.2 trillion from the federal government in the next fiscal year, while the province was likely to generate Rs93 billion in revenue by itself.

The aide to the chief minister said the provincial government would get Rs122 billion in foreign loans for development schemes and recommended a 10 per cent increase in the basic salary of its employees.

He said the provincial government’s tax on property was reduced from six per cent to 3.5 per cent and the tax on private housing societies increased.

Mr Aslam said cess on tobacco was increased.

He said there would be a fixed tax on wedding halls, while the tax on restaurants had been reduced to six per cent.

The CM’s aide said the provincial government was not taxing merged tribal districts and Malakand division, so it requested the federal government, too, not to tax those areas.

He said the province recently received funds for tribal districts from the centre.

Mr Aslam said the federal government was holding talks with the International Monitory Fund for loans, and therefore, it couldn’t set a date for the announcement of its budget.

He added that even if the federal government presented its budget on June 7, there would be very little time for the provincial government to lay and pass its budget due to Eidul Azha, which was likely to be marked on June 17 or 18.

“We have not bypassed anyone, nor is there anything in the law stopping us from presenting the provincial budget before the announcement of the federal budget,” he said.

The CM’s adviser said the provincial government developed its budget in light of four principles, including revenue maximisation, expenditure reduction, resource mobilisation, and taxing those required to be taxed, and providing relief to those who deserved relief.

He said the provincial government feared it would not receive Rs46.8 billion under the windfall levy and Rs111 billion in net hydel profit from the centre.

Meanwhile, opposition members in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly wondered why the KP government wanted to present its budget even before the announcement of the federal budget.

Leader of the Opposition Dr Ibadullah Khan told reporters after the budget speech outside the Assembly Hall on Friday that the provincial government had acknowledged that 92 per cent of its total annual expenditure was paid by the federal government, but it was still complaining against the latter.

He said it wasn’t clear how much funding the centre would provide to the province in the next fiscal year from the federal divisible pool and under the National Finance Commission Award and what decision the Council of Common Interest would take.

Dr Khan said provincial minister for finance Aftab Alam Afridi had assumed about the funds to be given by the federal government to the province.

Accompanied by Pakistan Peoples Party leader Arbab Zarak and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Zahir Khan, the opposition leader said the federal government wanted to pass the budget before June 3, in a reference to a Supreme Court hearing about the oath-taking of the KP Assembly’s reserved seats for women and non-Muslims.

He called the Peshawar Bus Rapid Transit a “white elephant” and said the government had allocated Rs3 billion as a subsidy for the bus service, though the money was enough to construct 250 schools in the province.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
K-P govt to buy wheat on designated days

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has allocated specific days for procurement of wheat from local farmers as part of its ongoing wheat procurement campaign.

Sundays have been designated for the procurement of wheat from growers in Malakand, Haripur, Swabi, and Nowshera while Saturdays and Sundays have been set aside for the procurement of wheat from local farmers in Dera Ismail Khan and Mardan.

During the designated days, wheat will be purchased on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. A maximum of 100 metric tons of wheat is to be purchased from each farmer, whether local or from other provinces.

According to provincial Food Minister Syed Zahir Shah Toru, specific days have been allocated for local farmers to facilitate them. Local farmers will have to present verified documents and identification to sell their wheat. A purchase committee, comprising a Halal Food Authority Assistant Director and other officials, will verify the wheat and documents.

If a farmer from Punjab is found selling wheat under the guise of a local grower, action would be taken against them under the relevant laws. A conflict resolution committee has also been established to address issues related to wheat procurement from local farmers. The committee will comprise the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Chairman), Deputy Director of the Halal Food Authority, Deputy Director of Agriculture, and the Divisional Deputy Director of Food.

The provincial government’s priority is to benefit local farmers through wheat procurement. In the first 10 days of the wheat procurement campaign, from May 7 to May 17, wheat was purchased from local farmers.

The K-P government has once again designated specific days for the convenience of local farmers. All possible measures have been taken to ensure transparency in the wheat procurement campaign.

Wheat procurement has been proceeding smoothly across the province as Zahir Shah Toru last week said that, despite ongoing economic challenges, the provincial government had commenced the procurement of 300,000 metric tons of wheat at a cost of Rs29 billion.

The procurement started on May 7 and is scheduled to continue for two months, the Minister said during his visit to the wheat godown and procurement centre in Abbottabad, accompanied by Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) Iftikhar Jadoon.

Emphasizing the government’s dedication to providing relief to local farmers amid economic difficulties, the Minister stressed the importance of transparency in the procurement process.

The district food controller of Abbottabad briefed the Minister on the arrangements made for wheat procurement, including the installation of CCTV cameras in the godown which has a storage capacity of 18,000 metric tons of wheat.

EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 

KP govt not at odds with any institution, says CM Gandapur​

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur says the federation and the provinces will cooperate as matters have been settled.

The chief minister said his discussions with Minister for Power Awais Leghari were fruitful, and stressed that the PTI founder always advocated for strong institutions.

Gandapur, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Federal Minister Awais Leghari held a press conference.

Gandapur clarified that they were not at odds with any institution or the system itself. He stressed that political movements and administrative issues should not be conflated. He called for relief from loadshedding for KP and asked for the cooperation of the province's residents.

He also highlighted that his province was providing electricity to the entire country and promised to work together to reduce line losses.

He noted that election-related cases were in courts and highlighted that there was no disagreement with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor.

Leghari expressed his happiness about the day’s developments. He thanked Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for resolving the issues and mentioned that they had developed a model to share with other provinces.

Leghari added that a strategy on the issue would be formulated soon. He praised the PTI for taking a significant step and expressed gratitude to the KP chief minister.

Naqvi noted that there was a positive discussion with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government. He acknowledged that a major crisis in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had been resolved. Naqvi discussed his long-standing relationship with Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

Source: Dunya News
 
KP opposition rejects budget as unrealistic

Opposition members in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly on Monday rejected the provincial government’s budget for the next fiscal year as “unrealistic, based on presumptions, and without resource allocations.”

During the session chaired by Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, the opposition members said it was a political stunt on part of the provincial government to present its budget before the federal government announced its financial plans for 2024–25.

They insisted that the province depended on the centre’s funding for 92 per cent of its expenditure.

“Preempting the federal budget is nothing but a political stunt on part of the KP government,” Leader of the Opposition Dr. Ibadullah Khan told the house.

He claimed that the province’s 2023–24 budget was based on 84 per cent of funds from the centre but its next budget had even gone beyond that.

Dr Khan said nobody knew how much the province received from the centre under the heads of the National Finance Commission Award, net hydel profit, and war on terror in the outgoing financial year.

He wondered how the provincial government could presume that the federal government would provide it with Rs1.1 trillion for fighting terrorism, Rs311 billion as NHP and Rs259 billion for the development of merged tribal districts in the next fiscal, while Rs130 billion would come as foreign aid.

The opposition leader said the 2023–24 provincial budget had Rs91.9 billion for the war on terrorism, and the government could get hold of just Rs85 billion,so how it could presume to receive Rs108 billion for the purpose from the centrenext year.

He said the provincial government had projected net hydel profit at Rs85.1 billion in 2023–24 but got only Rs7 billion, but still, it had unrealistically pitched that funding in the next fiscal at Rs111.3 billion.

Dr. Khan questioned how the province would claim that amount of money from the centre with the chief minister’s hostile approach towards the federal government.

He also criticised the government for allocating just 4.2 per cent of the budget for the agriculture sector, saying 70 per cent of the province’s population depends on agriculture, so that allocation is meagre.

The opposition leader also rejected 1.8 per cent of the budget’s funding for clean drinking water, 5.5 per cent for elementary and secondary education, 8.5 per cent for healthcare, 1.1 per cent for higher education, 0.4 per cent for information technology, and 0.05 per cent for minerals, declaring those funds too little.

He alleged that Rs5 billion in funds were embezzled during wheat procurement by the province in the last 10 days.

Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl leader Lutfur Rehman also flayed the provincial government for announcing its budget even before the announcement of the federal budget and requested the house to reject the move.

He also urged the government to come up with a budget “based on facts.”

“The development outlay has been pitched at Rs416 billion after an increase of Rs115 billion compared with the outgoing year’s. This is an unrealistic figure,” he said.

Mr Rehman said the province lacked the capacity to speedily complete development projects, as many of them had been lingering on for years.

He insisted that the law and order situation in the province was not in anyone’s hands, so how the government could claim to improve the financial situation amid a law and order crisis.

The JUI-F member said decisions were “taken and implemented somewhere else.”

Awami National Party MPA Arbab Usman wondered how the provincial government could claim to collect $4.6 billion in revenue at a time when there was no actual business activity in the province.

He said the provincial government insisted that it wanted to build a welfare state that could happen only through industrialisation.

Ehsanullah Khan of the Pakistan Peoples Party, Shehla Bano of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, and Adnan Khan of the JUI-F, along with Mohammad Riaz and Ijaz Mohammad, also spoke in the session.

The house also adopted a resolution relaxing rules for holding budget discussions during public holidays.

The chair later adjourned the session until today (Tuesday) afternoon over a lack of quorum.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
Gandapur likens party struggle to ‘fight for independence’

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Tuesday vowed to continue the struggle for the release of PTI founder Imran Khan, comparing their fight to the struggle for independence from British rule.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the Pehur High-Level Canal Extension Project in Swabi, Gandapur highlighted the project's significance in promoting regional prosperity.

He stated that the PTI’s “ultimate goal” was “true freedom”.

"Imran Khan is in jail for our future generations. His release is our duty. Imran Khan is on the side of truth, and we will continue to support him as Almighty has commanded us to stand by the truth."

Gandapur dismissed the charges against Khan as fabricated, demanding his immediate release. "Our struggle will continue until Imran Khan is free. Despite all oppression, we stand with Khan and will remain steadfast. We will claim our rights just as we won freedom from the British."

EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 
KP CM orders mass wedding of 4,000 deserving women

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has directed the quarters concerned to devise a sustainable model to ensure utilisation of social security funds in a proper manner.

He directed to arrange collective marriage programme of 4,000 deserving women hailing from different areas of the province.

Under the programme, a grant of Rs0.2 million per woman would be provided from the dowry fund, he said.

The CM issued the instructions while speaking at a meeting held at the Chief Minister’s House on Friday.

MNA Dr Amjad Ali Khan, secretary social welfare Nazar Hussain Shah, special secretaries to chief minister, Waqar Ali Khan, Masood Younis and other relevant officials attended the meeting.

Mr Gandapur directed the authorities concerned to collect the actual data of deserving women from all the districts and to provide quota in proportion to the population of each district, so the decision regarding mass marriage could be implemented in a transparent manner.

“We need to have an efficient scrutiny mechanism in order to ensure that only deserving girls would be selected for that programme,” he said. He directed that members of the committees to be formed at village council level should be selected purely on merit.

He made it clear that political recommendations or personal likes and dislikes would not be tolerated in the disbursement of social security funds. The CM also directed to provide standard electric wheelchairs to the needy persons.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
Special nutritional package announced for expectant mothers

As an important step towards maternal and child health care as well as preventing stunted growth of infants, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Sardar Ali Amin Khan Gandapur has decided in principle to provide a special package to expectant mothers in the backward areas of the province.

Under the package, women would be provided with nutrients and food supplements for a specific time period during and after pregnancy. The Chief Minister has underlined the need for pragmatic steps to reduce the prevailing infant mortality rate in the province and decided that the midwifery sector in the province would be further strengthened by aligning it with contemporary needs and requirements, in addition to ensuring strict implementation of the Child Marriage Act of the provincial government.

He was chairing the fourth meeting of the Provincial Population Task Force held at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar on Tuesday. Provincial cabinet members Arshad Aiyub, Meena Khan Afridi, Faisal Tarakai, Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, Mishal Yousufzai, Liaqat Ali Khan, Chief Secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry, Additional Chief Secretary Syed Imtiaz Hussain Shah, concerned administrative secretaries and officials of the Population Welfare and partner departments attended the meeting. The participants on the occasion unanimously emphasized the need for implementing the law related to making a blood test mandatory in the ‘Nikah Nama’ and directed the authorities to take steps to provide blood testing facilities at the local level for the purpose.

The meeting also urged authorities to ensure easy access for people to the services and facilities of family planning which they also decided to provide at all healthcare centres across the province.

It was also decided to launch a special awareness campaign for the general public to that effect. Besides other initiatives, seminars would be arranged for the awareness of college and university students on the subject.

A briefing to meeting participants on the demographic aspects of K-P also disclosed that the province’s population growth rate was lower than those of the other provinces.

Addressing the participants, the Chief Minister said that a rapidly growing population was a big challenge not only for K-P but the entire country and that an integrated strategy was needed to deal with the challenge in an efficient and meaningful manner. He said there was a dire need to balance the available resources and population and that the government, partner organizations and the private sector would have to have an integrated approach for the purpose.

He directed that a viable plan be devised for addressing the issues related to maternal and infant mortality and stunted growth, further directing that population welfare centres be established in the areas where healthcare centres are not available.

Later, the Chief Minister also chaired a meeting on the financial issues affecting public sector universities and thoroughly discussed the factors contributing to their financial constraints as well as avenues for making them self-sufficient through effective management and utilization of their properties.

K-P Minister for Higher Education Meena Khan Afridi, Advisor on Finance Muzammil Aslam, Higher Education Secretary Arshad Khan and the Vice Chancellors of public sector universities attended the meeting.

The Chief Minister constituted a committee comprising the Minister for Higher Education, the Finance Advisor, the Higher Education Secretary, and the representatives of public sector universities of different regions.

The committee will minutely examine the issues of public sector universities and submit a detailed report to the Chief Minister. It will also submit recommendations to achieve universities’ self-sufficiency.

The Chief Minister also directed the quarters concerned to ensure payment of salaries for the months of May and June to employees of universities and also directed high-ups at universities to submit their realistic demands, along with the necessary details, to the finance department.

He also directed university heads to work out their needs and plans for the solarization of their institutions in order to cut their exorbitant electricity bills, adding that the provincial government would extend all-out support to them in that regard via a public-private partnership.

EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 
All new tube-wells in K-P to be solarized

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has said that completing ongoing development projects within the stipulated timelines is the priority of the government and all new tube-wells will use solar power in the future.

A meeting regarding development projects was held here at Chief Minister House the other day, with Chief Minister Khyber in the chair.

Additional Chief Secretary Planning & Development Syed Imtiaz Hussain Shah, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Amjad Ali Khan, Secretary P&D Shahidullah and other relevant officials attended the meeting.

The participants were briefed about the progress so far made on the development projects being executed in the various sectors under District Development Program. He said that special attention would be given to providing facilities to people instead of making investment in the construction of new buildings; services delivery mechanism in already established institutions would be improved for this purpose.

He said that pragmatic steps would be taken to ensure that the citizens are provided with clean drinking water and other basic facilities.

He directed initiating work on installing tube wells in the areas, where clean drinking water facility is not available further directing that work on the solarization of those tube wells should also be started simultaneously.

He made it clear that there would be no compromise on the quality of development projects. Action would be taken against the responsible authorities in case of substandard and unsatisfactory development works, he added.

It may be recalled that a A delegation of UNICEF headed by Abdullah Fadil, called on Chief Minister Khyber Thursday and discussed with him matters of mutual interest with special focus on public welfare activities being carried out in the province with the assistance of UNICEF.

Prospects for further expanding mutual cooperation and partnership between UNICEF and the provincial government were also discussed in the meeting.

Speaking on this occasion, the chief minister said that UNICEF is playing an important role for the public welfare in the province. He said that incumbent provincial government also intends to further enhance and expand this partnership to some other sectors including upgradation of schools, supply of clean drinking water, sewerage, solarization of schools, madaris, tube wells and deserving households in the province.

Touching upon the priorities of his government regarding development of newly merged districts, the chief minister said that Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa especially merged areas had been affected badly during the war against terrorism. That is why, he said that the provincial government expect special cooperation from its development partner for providing relief to people of newly merged districts.

He made it clear that fast track development of newly merged districts is the priority area of the provincial government adding that, despite the numerous challenges and difficult financial situation, special efforts are being made for this purpose; and that is why the government also need special cooperation from international donor agencies and developmental partners in this regard.

EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 
Budget 2024-25: KP seeks inclusion of 91 projects in PSDP

Ahead of the newly constituted National Economic Council (NEC) meeting on Monday, Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur has sent a letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif requesting the inclusion of 91 ongoing projects in the federal Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) 2024-25.

The estimated throw-forward cost for these projects is Rs1.327 trillion. Many of the dropped projects were already 70 per cent complete, including highways, roads, health facilities, small dam buildings, the Peshawar expo centre and the renovation of existing energy facilities.

Mr Gandapur has also sent a letter to the Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal. The KP chief minister urged the prime minister to address the genuine demands of the province. “A comprehensive review of the proposed budgetary allocations and inclusion of omitted projects in the final PSDP 2024-25 are paramount to ensure equitable development across the nation,” he said.

The letter to the prime minister claimed that these projects were dropped and that details were communicated barely two hours before the Annual Plan Coordination Committee (APCC) meeting on May 31.

Mr Gandapur said that the federal government had approved 279 new projects in PSDP 2024-25, excluding the KP province from the list. He stated that the province’s ongoing projects had been removed from the list.

He stated that the project’s cancellation contradicts the decision of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) Apex Committee meeting on Jan 3, which determined that all ongoing projects will be completed to save previously invested funds.

He went on to say that the decision made by the National Economic Council (NEC) on Jan 29 confirmed the earlier decision that all ongoing projects could be finished. Authorisation of allotted money for such initiatives is required to ensure their timely implementation. “Violating both SIFC-Apex Committee and NEC decisions will undoubtedly jeopardise KP’s development trajectory,” the chief minister remarked.

Interestingly, he stated that the NEC meeting also mentioned that the SIFC-Apex committee had restricted the inclusion of provincial development projects in the federal PSDP, except for the least developed districts/regions identified by the Planning Commission. He stated that in compliance with this decision, the provincial government did not propose any new projects for the PSDP 2024-25.

The KP government has also requested Rs70bn for the merged districts’ development budget, while the federal government has only allotted Rs50 billion. The federal government owes Rs40bn in the current fiscal year for the merged districts’ development portfolio.

SOURCE: DAWN
 
K-P declares federal budget ‘anti-poor’

Advisor to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister on Finance Muzammil Aslam has said that common people had been hit hard economically in the federal budget and his own life and business would be greatly affected by the budget.

The finance adviser said the federal budget did not include any plan by the government as it had been prepared at the behest of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) while ignoring the welfare of the middle and poor segments of society.

The advisor claimed that the federal government had followed in the footsteps of K-P as far as pension reforms were concerned.

“New government employees at the Centre will be employed under a contributory pension. The federal budget has put more burden on the salaried class. The tax rate has been increased from 35 to 45 per cent,” he shared, adding that the slabs of the salaried class had also been changed and the capital gains tax raised, and the tax on real estate had been increased to 15 per cent for the first time and to 45 per cent for non-filers.

Non-filers belong to the low income group and a 45 per cent tax is tantamount to cruelty on poor people, he said, adding that 38 per cent tax had been increased in the federal budget on the IMF’s instructions.

He claimed that non-tax revenue had been increased to Rs3,587 billion, which was the main reason for inflation, that all sectors would be affected by the increase in taxes, and that, after payment to the provinces, the income of the federal government would be Rs9,111 billion while the interest payment this year was Rs9,700 billion.

The Finance Advisor said that the federal government’s income couldn’t even pay the interest, and that Rs593 billion had been earmarked for the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) which would benefit 10 million people instead of 9.3 million which was not a big deal.

In the budget, he said, only Rs5 billion markup sharing had been given in agriculture, and that there was a 4.5 per cent negative agricultural growth which would make food items expensive.

He said the 12 per cent inflation target in the budget was not good and would lead to higher inflation. Describing the federal budget as an anti-people budget, Muzammil Aslam said it was a collection of contradictions.

He said the federal budget was ‘anti-people, anti-employment and anti-development’ as well as a collection of contradictions that he rejected, adding that a tax target of Rs 12,970 billion had been set on items that were used by the majority of people.

Muzammil Aslam further said that, though the end of tax exemptions was welcome, the return of tax exemptions was not equal to the relief given to the public. The change in salary tax slabs, he added, was once again an attack on the honest, that the removal of exemptions on exporters would affect domestic exports, that the 45 per cent real estate tax (CGT) would create chaos in the market as it would encourage cash transactions, and that the addition of a late filer category after the non-tax filer one was another mistake.

Regarding increasing the price of petrol in the federal budget, the Finance Adviser said that raising the petrol levy to Rs80 was yet another attempt to burden the public.

He called the 25 per cent and 22 per cent increases in salaries a big relief for government employees but said it would affect surpluses of the provinces.

EXPRESS TRIBUNE
 

Gandapur gives warning to federal govt over power supply issue​


PESHAWAR (Dunya News) - Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has alleged that the federal government is taking revenge from the people of the province for not supplying them with required electricity.

The CM said the province was experiencing worst power shutdowns, adding the federal government did not fulfill its commitment to provide the province with electricity as per its requirement.

Ali Amin Gandapur said the local Wapda officials were cooperating with the provincial government according to their capacity, but it is the federal government who has further reduced the power supply to the province.

There will be another round of talk with the federation to discuss power loadshedding. The provincial government is fully cooperating with Wapda on the issue of line losses, Ali Amin Gandapur said.

On the other hand, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said the federal government was not fulfilling its commitment pertaining to power supply to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The KP CM said the federation is not fulfilling its commitment due to which complaints about increasing power outages were mounting.

Ali Amin Gandapur said urged the federal government to correct its attitude towards Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, otherwise the people of the province will take to streets fix its behaviour.

Source: Dunya News
 
Give KP its outstanding money, CM Gandapur to PM

Addressing a press conference here, KP chief minister said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has sought the province’s support over the talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for loan package.

“Firstly, I want the money of the province to be paid to us, if not paid, we will inform the IMF that they are getting money in our name but don’t pay it to us,” KP CM said.

He said, “It is my warning to the prime minister that you are forcing us to push your government out of power”. “I know, how to expel you out of power. You could not bear it. No one could prevent us from taking our due rights,” he declared.

He said it is responsibility of the federal government to end the power load shedding. “We will shut down the national grid if an uninterrupted power supply was not assured to us,” he warned.

“The assembly members should go to grid stations personally and restore the power supply in the areas where a load shedding of 12 hours being implemented,” he added.

arynews.tv

Give KP its outstanding money, CM Gandapur to PM

PESHAWAR: "I am telling Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif the last time to give Khyber Pakhtunkhwa its due money," Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur said on
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 

Gandapur storms grid station, restores power amid KP loadshedding crisis​


Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Wednesday stormed a grid station restoring power in some areas in Dera Ismail Khan (DI Khan) , and laid down his own outage plan as the loadshedding row worsened in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with lawmakers raiding the power controlling facilities and abusing their powers, Geo News reported.

In a decisive move to address the issue, Gandapur visited the Dera Ismail Khan (DI Khan) grid station to oversee the restoration of electricity.

On the occasion, CM Gandapur fixed the loadshedding duration at 12 hours.

"No area will face loadshedding beyond 12 hours. Assembly members should visit grid stations in their respective areas to ensure compliance with the loadshedding schedule," he said.

Earlier, addressing a press conference, CM Ali Amin Gandapur picked apart the federal government for withholding approximately Rs1,600 billion in dues and revenues owed to the provincial government.

"The federal government said it needs some time to review the power system and asked for our support," he said. "However, the timeline given to the Centre has expired. I tried to contact Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division) Awais Leghari but received no response."

“This means you (the people) and we are free,” he stated, urging everyone to follow his policy and spread it. “No one should damage any Wapda asset because it is our asset, made with our tax money.”

Addressing the police, Gandapur said: “I have informed the KP police chief that no cases should be registered against anyone at Wapda’s request. This is KP’s police. It is not bound to Wapda. Wapda is committing injustice, and we are not getting our due rights. You have to act justly.”

“Imran Khan has made me the chief minister of your province. As the chief executive, you must follow my instructions.”

To the administration, he emphasised the need to follow his directives, ensuring personnel accompany lawmakers to oversee grid stations and ensure no faults and no loadshedding beyond 12 hours.

“It is the federal government’s responsibility to resolve these issues, but it is failing, hence the criticism,” Gandapur said.

He announced plans to curtail the national power supply from the province. “I am also coming to Islamabad. Don’t think I am saying this only from my province. I will say all this in Islamabad too.”

Addressing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Gandapur said: “The prime minister called and spoke about the province’s support to secure a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). I first want my province’s money; otherwise, I will clearly tell the IMF that they are taxing our people and taking money in our name.”

“Your (PM’s) behaviour and actions are forcing us to push your government aside. I know your capacity and how you are in power, and I will take actions step by step. Eventually, you will not be able to bear it, and even those who brought you to power will not be able to save you.”

Gandapur alleged that the federal government had failed to fulfil its promises and would now face the consequences.

Member Provincial Assembly (MPA) Fazal Elahi, a member of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), strongarmed his way into the Rehman Baba grid station in Peshawar on Tuesday and restored power in his area.

The police registered an FIR regarding this incident but did not name MPA Fazal Elahi in the case.

Officials from Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) reported that MPA Elahi forcibly restored power to ten feeders with high line losses at 11 PM, causing a financial loss of Rs2.64 million to PESCO.

According to PESCO officials, these feeders have since been shut down again. The power company officials noted that Elahi's constituency was served by feeders with high losses, leading to 16-hour loadshedding in those areas.

PESCO further clarified that in KP's rural areas with high line losses, 16-hour loadshedding was being implemented. However, in areas with no losses, no loadshedding is being conducted, they added.

This incident came on the heels of the viral video of MPA Fazal Elahi and his companions lying on cots within the Rehman Baba grid station, after forcibly restoring power to ten feeders.

www.thenews.com.pk

Gandapur storms grid station, restores power amid KP loadshedding crisis

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Wednesday stormed a grid station restoring power in some areas in Dera Ismail Khan , and laid down his own outage plan as the loadshedding row worsened in Khyber...
www.thenews.com.pk www.thenews.com.pk
 
The fact that this guy is the chief minister of a province says a lot about politics in Pakistan.
 
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