Opposition Rejects KP Chief Minister’s Invitation to All-Party Conference

CM Gandapur Criticizes Opposition for Skipping Security Conference, Says They Lack Concern for Public

By DTD- On Jul 24, 2025

PESHAWAR: Opposition parties in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have rejected the provincial government’s invitation to an all-party conference (APC) scheduled for Thursday, aimed at addressing the recent surge in terrorist activities across the province.

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur announced the APC to be held at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar, urging all political factions to join forces for a unified strategy against terrorism. However, major opposition parties including the Awami National Party (ANP), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) declined the invitation, with some dismissing the conference as a mere formality.

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Gandapur expressed disappointment over the opposition’s refusal, warning that those who skip the APC will be seen as indifferent to public concerns. “This conference is crucial for the safety and security of our people,” he said while addressing reporters on Wednesday.

This development comes shortly after the provincial government and opposition had cooperated on the Senate seat distribution—a rare consensus in the province’s political landscape. Despite that cooperation, political differences remain stark on matters of governance and security.

The ANP’s Mian Iftikhar Hussain emphasized that since the APC is called by the provincial government and not by PTI alone, all major decisions have already been taken, making the conference redundant. “We will not participate in a government-organized event that lacks transparency,” he stated.

Similarly, the PPP’s KP President Mohammad Ali Shah Bacha criticized the government’s sincerity and labeled the APC an “eyewash.” He demanded the provincial government end its political sit-ins and focus on resolving pressing public issues. PML-N Additional Secretary Information Arbab Khizer Hayat also announced his party’s decision to boycott the APC.

In contrast, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) confirmed their attendance. JI KP Central President Abdul Wasay stated that their senior leader Professor Muhammad Ibrahim Khan will represent the party, adding that JI supports all efforts toward peace in the province. QWP Central Information Secretary Tariq Khan will attend on behalf of his party.

The Chief Minister’s Secretariat sent invitations to all political parties, highlighting the urgent need for a collective response to rising terrorism, particularly in the merged tribal districts. The government stressed that combating this threat requires collaboration beyond political affiliations.

Gandapur assured that the provincial government remains committed to eradicating terrorism, detailing substantial investments in police modernization and tribal jirgas to foster public support. He underscored the importance of shared responsibility, urging all parties to reflect on their roles in the province’s stability.