Political uncertainty gripped Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as Chief Minister Sohail Khan Afridi began consultations with close associates about the possibility of resigning, following mounting pressure linked to the PTI sit-in, a Peshawar High Court (PHC) order, and a wave of criticism on social media, it was reported on Wednesday.
According to sources, the chief minister held a meeting with trusted colleagues at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House, where he openly questioned whether he should step down in view of the evolving political situation. “Given the circumstances that have developed, perhaps I should resign,” he was quoted as saying during the consultation.
The pressure appears to have intensified after the implementation of the Peshawar High Court’s directives related to the ongoing sit-in. Afridi reportedly told his confidants that despite issuing clear instructions to the police to limit action to reopening blocked roads while allowing party workers to continue their protest, a fresh front had been opened against him.
Sources said the chief minister expressed disappointment over what he described as an orchestrated social media campaign allegedly initiated at the behest of certain party figures. He maintained that his approach had sought to balance compliance with the court’s order and the party’s protest strategy, yet criticism escalated regardless.
Afridi also complained that some leaders based abroad were fuelling negative narratives through social media statements targeting the party leadership operating within the country. The remarks hint at deepening internal strains within the party at a sensitive political juncture.
Despite his concerns, close associates urged the chief minister to remain composed. Advisers counselled him to keep his emotions in check and continue managing affairs with patience while monitoring the political climate.
