KP Govt to take over Malakand Division security from Army

In Peshawar, senior officials from both federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) governments gathered for a high-level meeting last Tuesday. The aim of this session was to review and update strategies concerning KP’s security situation and economic challenges.

Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, along with representatives from the federal government and key civil and military figures, attended the crucial discussion. Among these attendees were Shafi Jan, the Information Adviser for KP; Muzammil Aslam, the Finance Adviser; and Aftab Alam, the Law Minister.

The meeting concluded with a series of decisions on security matters and economic issues. It was decided that as conditions stabilize in affected areas, responsibilities currently managed by the army would be transferred to provincial law enforcement agencies such as police units and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD).

In Malakand Division specifically, key powers will now fall under the purview of the provincial police force and CTD. In other districts where counter-terrorism operations are ongoing, authority will shift to civilian law enforcement entities once stability re-establishes itself.

The officials discussed financial challenges in detail, particularly how KP’s concerns about its share in the National Finance Commission (NFC) award would be addressed. Muzammil Aslam pointed out that if the province receives its due share, significant fiscal issues could be resolved.

Despite current funding limitations from federal sources, the KP government is continuing to meet its responsibilities in newly merged tribal districts. A proposal was put forward to address future financial shortfalls and ensure a smooth transition by formally presenting provincial recommendations for maximum financial relief to the federal authorities.

Both federal and provincial officials pledged to collaborate on compensating for economic losses resulting from security operations and initiating alternative trade and employment opportunities to support local livelihoods in affected areas.

Law Minister Aftab Alam described these decisions as “important and historic,” noting that the handover of responsibilities signifies growing confidence in the KP police. The minister highlighted the necessity of consulting political, religious stakeholders, as well as tribal elders, for broad-based acceptance of the decisions.

The provincial apex committee’s recommendations would be reviewed by the national apex committee ahead of a final decision, he added.

Separately, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with Governor Faisal Karim Kundi at the Governor House in Peshawar. The governor welcomed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision to host Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches in Peshawar this year, which is set to promote sports in the province.

Naqvi assured that both federal and provincial governments would collaborate to secure sustainable peace, eradicate terrorism, and provide youth with opportunities in sports and employment. The governor also expressed condolences following an incident involving the Islamabad Imambargah blast and recommended awarding a presidential gallantry award, Sitara-e-Shujaat, posthumously to Syed Aun Abbas for his valiant efforts against terrorism.

Overall, this series of decisions underscores the KP government’s commitment to transitioning security responsibilities while addressing economic vulnerabilities through collaborative federal-provincial cooperation.