Gandapur secures COAS assurance for NFC, pushes for increased funding for K-P

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur spoke to the media alongside PTI spokesman Sheikh Waqas Akram on Monday, highlighting several crucial issues affecting the province.

He stressed the pivotal role of the military establishment in addressing the province’s concerns, stating that discussions with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) have been ongoing, particularly regarding the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award.

Gandapur confirmed that the COAS had assured him that a meeting would be convened to address the NFC issue, leading the provincial government to temporarily refrain from approaching the Supreme Court.

He criticised the delay in the new NFC Award, stressing that K-P was entitled to more funds, especially due to the integration of former FATA regions. The new NFC Award could allocate an additional Rs130 billion to Rs150 billion to the province.

“Under the 7th NFC Award, K-P’s share is 14.5%, which could increase to over 19%, potentially bringing an extra 360 billion rupees to the province,” Gandapur stated.

The CM also underscored that K-P was performing better in comparison to other provinces, claiming that the province had achieved significant progress, while other provinces were grappling with corruption allegations.

He further noted that he had empowered the chief secretary to take immediate action against corruption in the province, emphasising transparency and accountability.

Gandapur challenged critics, saying that the province’s growth was evident, and urged a comparison with the performance of other provincial governments. “In our province, there is no corruption, and the chief secretary has the authority to investigate and hold anyone accountable,” he asserted.

Addressing the broader political context, Gandapur reaffirmed his commitment to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its leadership.

He confirmed his active participation in the PTI’s ongoing efforts, particularly with regard to upcoming political meetings and rallies. “I will continue to fight for the release of Imran Khan and for the future of our party,” he added.

The CM also responded to allegations of corruption involving three provincial ministers, assuring the public that if any wrongdoing was confirmed, all details would be made public.

He clarified that Qazi Anwar, a prominent official in the province, was not under his jurisdiction and that any complaints could be addressed directly by the relevant authorities.

Gandapur also expressed dissatisfaction with the federal government, stating that although he had nominated candidates for key positions such as the chief secretary and Inspector General of Police, his suggestions had not been acted upon.