Pakistan’s federal cabinet has considered possible constitutional and administrative measures to address the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting where officials discussed proposals following reports from intelligence agencies and KP police about security challenges and an increase in militant attacks across the province.
According to sources cited in the report, the cabinet received two special security assessments prepared by KP police and intelligence agencies. The reports highlighted concerns about the rise in terrorist incidents over the past two years and the difficulties faced by law enforcement agencies in maintaining security in affected districts.
One proposal discussed at the meeting involved imposing an emergency across KP under Article 232 of Pakistan’s Constitution. Officials also considered a separate administrative arrangement for 12 districts reportedly affected by unrest and security threats.
Another proposal suggested placing administrative control of eight districts in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas, along with Dera Ismail Khan, Lakki Marwat, Karak and Kohat, under the federal government. The discussions also included a proposal to assign provincial chief executive powers to KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, subject to the government’s decision and the applicable legal process.
The security reports reportedly raised concerns about the provincial government’s approach to militant groups and alleged support networks operating from Afghanistan. These assessments included criticism of what the reports described as a soft approach towards militants. These remain claims attributed to the sources and reports cited, rather than independently established findings.
The proposals were still under consideration in the information provided, and no formal approval was confirmed. Any decision to impose an emergency or transfer administrative authority would depend on the relevant constitutional and legal requirements. The cabinet’s deliberations reflect ongoing debate over how to respond to security challenges while determining the extent of federal and provincial authority.
Federal Cabinet Weighs Emergency in KP Amid Security Concerns and Rising Militancy
